France Quote by Newton N. Minow
“In Germany, under the law everything is prohibited except that which is permitted. In France, under the law everything is permitted except that which is prohibited. In the Soviet Union, everything is prohibited, including that which is permitted. And in Italy, under the law everything is permitted, especially that which is prohibited.”
About This Quote
The quote highlights paradoxes in legal systems where definitions of permission and prohibition differ, exposing contradictions and absurdities.
In simple terms: Legal definitions can be contradictory and absurd.
Question the consistency of laws.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- comparative law
- civic education
- legal reform
- public debate
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do these contradictions affect citizens' trust?
- Can clearer definitions improve governance?
Legal systems may be intentionally vague, leading to manipulation.