Constitution Quote by Tony Judt
““in a constitutionally ordered state, where laws are derived from broad principles of right and wrong and where those principles are enshrined and protected by agreed upon procedures and practices, it can never be in the long-term interest of the state or its citizens to flout those procedures at home or associate too closely overseas with the enemies of your founding ideals.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Lecture on Constitutional Governance, 1990s
A state must respect its foundational legal procedures and avoid aligning with those who oppose its core principles, as this protects long‑term stability and citizen welfare.
In simple terms: Follow laws and avoid foreign enemies of core ideals.
Key Takeaway
Uphold constitutional order.
Themes
law
governance
principles
foreign policy
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative reform
- diplomatic negotiations
- citizen education
- policy making
Key Concepts
constitutionalism
political legitimacy
national identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance security with strict adherence to principle?
- What mechanisms prevent gradual drift from foundational values?
A Different Perspective
Competing interests may pressure shortcuts, risking erosion of trust.
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