Quote by Marquis de Sade
Are not laws dangerous which inhibit the passions? Compare the centuries of anarchy with those of the strongest legalism in any country you like and you will see that it is only when the laws are silent that the greatest actions appear.
Summary
This quote suggests that laws which limit or suppress people's passions can be detrimental. It argues that throughout history, times of anarchy have often been more impactful and productive than periods where strict laws prevail. The quote implies that it is during moments when laws are not explicitly dictating behavior that remarkable achievements and movements occur. It questions the effectiveness of overly regulated societies and champions the notion that great actions arise when restrictions are minimized, allowing individual passions to flourish.