Quote by Thomas Jefferson

A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the high duties of a good citizen, but it is not the highest. The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation. To lose our country by a scrupulous adherence to written law, would be to lose the law itself, with life, liberty, property and all those who are enjoying them with us; thus absurdly sacrificing the end to the means.

A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of

Summary

This quote recognizes the importance of following written laws as a responsibility of a good citizen. However, it also highlights that there are circumstances where obeying the letter of the law may not be the highest duty. In cases of necessity, self-preservation, or defending one's country, adherence to written law may need to be surpassed. The quote points out that an excessive commitment to following the law could result in the loss of the very values and freedoms the law is intended to protect. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for balance between upholding the law and protecting fundamental rights and principles.

By Thomas Jefferson

Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.

Random Quotations

There's so knowledge to be had that specialists cling to the

There's so knowledge to be had that specialists cling to their specialties as a shield against having to know anything about anything else. They avoid being drowned.

Science Science Fiction Scientists Foundation Isaac Asimov Prelude To Foundation

The willow is my favorite tree. I grew up near one. It's the

The willow is my favorite tree. I grew up near one. It's the most flexible tree in nature and nothing can break it - no wind, no elements, it can bend and withstand anything.

Nature

The American Judicial System is the best appearance of justi

The American Judicial System is the best appearance of justice that money can buy!

Justice

That's just the way: a person does a low-down thing, and the

That's just the way: a person does a low-down thing, and then he don't want to take no consequences of it. Thinks as long as he can hide it, it ain't no disgrace.

Truth Responsibility Philosophy

Why do I find it hard to write the next line?

Why do I find it hard to write the next line?

Inspirational True Lyrical

Wear the old coat and buy the new book.

Wear the old coat and buy the new book.

Reading

Przyjdzie kryska na Matyska

Przyjdzie kryska na Matyska

You cannot build character and courage by taking away a man'

You cannot build character and courage by taking away a man's initiative and independence.

Abraham Lincoln

Man Character Independence Buildup

Literature always anticipates life. It does not copy it, but

Literature always anticipates life. It does not copy it, but moulds it to its purpose. The nineteenth century, as we know it, is largely an invention of Balzac.

Books

The loftiest edifices need the deepest foundations.

The loftiest edifices need the deepest foundations.

George Santayana

Commitment

I'm sure I am impatient sometimes. I sure do get angry somet

I'm sure I am impatient sometimes. I sure do get angry sometimes. I think it's outrageous how hard it is to get this country to feed its children and to take care of its children, to give them a decent education.

Marian Wright Edelman

Education

Money will buy a bed but not sleep; books but not brains; fo

Money will buy a bed but not sleep; books but not brains; food but not appetite; finery but not beauty; a house but not a home; medicine but not health; luxuries but not culture; amusements but not happiness; religion but not salvation; a passport to everywhere but heaven.

Money