A crime persevered in a thousand centuries ceases to be a crime, and becomes a virtue. This is the law of custom, and custom supersedes all other forms of law.

Summary

This quote suggests that over time, actions that were initially considered crimes can become normalized and even perceived as virtues simply through repetition and societal acceptance. The "law of custom" refers to the power and influence of long-standing traditions and norms, which can ultimately outweigh and replace formal legal systems. In essence, this quote highlights the ability of cultural practices to redefine moral standards and transform what was once deemed wrongful into something considered morally right or virtuous.

Topics