Quote by Edward Gibbon
The urgent consideration of the public safety may undoubtedly authorize the violation of every positive law. How far that or any other consideration may operate to dissolve the natural obligations of humanity and justice, is a doctrine of which I still desire to remain ignorant.
Summary
In this quote, the author suggests that ensuring the safety of the public is paramount, and this may occasionally justify the breaking of specific laws. However, the author expresses a desire to remain ignorant about how far such considerations can dissolve the inherent moral obligations of humanity and justice. Essentially, the quote forces us to reflect on the limits of authority in prioritizing public safety at the expense of individual rights and ethical principles.