Quote by Edward F. Halifax
Men are not hanged for stealing horses, but that horses may not be stolen.
Summary
This quote implies that someone may face severe consequences for a seemingly minor offense not because of the act itself, but to deter others from committing a similar offense. It suggests that certain actions are met with strict punishment to uphold social order and discourage misconduct. In this context, it highlights the principle of deterrence, emphasizing that the punishment is meant to prevent the occurrence of a crime rather than solely providing retribution for the wrong committed.