Book Quote by William S. Burroughs
“Victimless crimes are the lifeline of the RIGHT virus. And there is a growing recognition, even in official quarters, that victimless crimes should be removed from the books or subject to minimal penalties.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on crime policy, 1970s
The quote suggests that offenses without direct victims are used to sustain a harmful ideology, and there is a push to de‑criminalize them or lower punishments.
In simple terms: Victimless offenses fuel a harmful system; some want them reduced.
Key Takeaway
Consider de‑criminalizing non‑harmful acts.
Themes
law
politics
ethics
social control
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- legislative reform
- public health campaigns
- activist lobbying
Key Concepts
libertarianism
criminal justice reform
political ideology
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a “victimless” crime?
- How do we balance individual freedom with collective safety?
A Different Perspective
Reducing penalties may overlook indirect harms to society.
