Skip to content

Arbitrary Quote by Paul Singer

“It is a very bad idea for governments to create arbitrary and unfair outcomes, or outcomes resulting from the passions and whims of the government rather than from the law, just because they have the power to do so.” quote by Paul Singer
Download Open image
“It is a very bad idea for governments to create arbitrary and unfair outcomes, or outcomes resulting from the passions and whims of the government rather than from the law, just because they have the power to do so.”

Paul Singer

About This Quote

Source Speech: Economic Freedom Forum, 2018

He warns that governments can misuse power to produce biased outcomes driven by whims rather than law, undermining fairness.

In simple terms: Government whims can create unfair results.

Key Takeaway

Demand rule‑based governance.

Themes

politics law justice power ethics

Mood

cautious concerned

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • regulatory reform
  • public administration

Key Concepts

arbitrary authority rule of law government accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent arbitrary decisions?
  • How can citizens hold governments accountable?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may still be influenced by politics.

2.6 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Paul Singer

Explore all 49 Paul Singer quotes

More Arbitrary quotes

Browse all 529 Arbitrary quotes