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Invincible Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“Nothing but a necessity invincible by any other means can justify ... a prostitution of laws, which constitute the pillars of our whole system of jurisprudence.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“Nothing but a necessity invincible by any other means can justify ... a prostitution of laws, which constitute the pillars of our whole system of jurisprudence.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter: Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 1790

A law that serves only a single, invincible necessity becomes a perversion, undermining the whole legal system.

In simple terms: Law that serves one purpose becomes corrupt.

Key Takeaway

Guard against laws that serve narrow interests.

Themes

law justice corruption principles

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • policy analysis
  • judicial review

Key Concepts

legal theory political philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent legal corruption?
  • How to balance necessity with fairness?
A Different Perspective

Complex societies may need compromise.

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