Cold Quote by Stendhal
“There is no such thing as "natural law": this expression is nothing but old nonsense... Prior to laws, what is natural is only the strength of the lion, or the need of the creature suffering from hunger or cold, in short, need.”
About This Quote
The concept of "natural law" is a myth; what is natural is simply the survival needs of creatures.
In simple terms: Natural law is a human construct, not a true principle.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about inherent laws.
Themes
philosophy
skepticism
nature
human constructs
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
skeptical
When to use this quote
- legal theory
- ethics classes
- environmental policy
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
natural law
survival instinct
philosophical critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Is any law truly natural?
- How do survival needs shape societies?
A Different Perspective
Overlooks that aspects of law that are beneficial.
![“Theories of "natural law" and the "law of nations" are another excellent example of discussions destitute of all exactness. [...] "Natural law" is simply that law of which the person using the phrase approves[…]” quote by Vilfredo Pareto](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9cb/vilfredo-pareto-22240_destitute_theories-of-natural-law-and-the-law-of-n_2015355.jpg)
![“This cold weather has set all the young Folks to providing Bedfellows. I have signed two or three Licences every Day [as a Fairfax Justice of the Peace] since I have been at Home. I wish I knew where to get a good one myself; for I find cold Sheets extreamly disagreeable.” quote by George Mason](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b92/george-mason-8435_bedfellows_this-cold-weather-has-set-all-the-young_3953.jpg)
