Arms Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“It is not only vain, but wicked, in a legislator to frame laws in opposition to the laws of nature, and to arm them with the terrors of death. This is truly creating crimes in order to punish them.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Letter to John Adams, 1785
Legislators should not create laws that contradict natural law, as doing so creates crimes to punish.
In simple terms: Laws must align with nature, not create injustice.
Key Takeaway
Respect natural order in lawmaking.
Themes
justice
law
nature
ethics
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- environmental regulation
- human rights law
- criminal justice reform
Key Concepts
natural law
legislative responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can laws reflect natural principles?
- What are the risks of ignoring nature in legislation?
A Different Perspective
Human nature and be complex; political compromise may require imperfect laws.
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![“Though you cannot see, when you take one step, what will be the next, yet follow truth, justice, and plain dealing, and never fear their leading you out of [any difficult situation] in the easiest manner possible...” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ebe/thomas-jefferson-43_difficult_though-you-cannot-see-when-you-take-one_9828.jpg)
