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Character Quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“It would not be correct to say that every moral obligation involves a legal duty; but every legal duty is founded on a moral obligation.” quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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“It would not be correct to say that every moral obligation involves a legal duty; but every legal duty is founded on a moral obligation.”

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

About This Quote

Source Essay: Moral Philosophy, 1815

Legal duties stem from moral obligations, though not all moral duties require legal enforcement.

In simple terms: Law reflects morality, but not all morals are law.

Key Takeaway

Align actions with both moral and legal standards.

Themes

ethics law philosophy society justice

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • judicial decisions
  • personal conduct

Key Concepts

Moral realism legal positivism duty ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moral duties should become law?
  • How do we handle moral duties without legal backing?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may lag behind evolving moral standards.

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