I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Again, a law may be both constitutional and expedient, and yet may be administered in an unjust and unfair way.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Laws can be just and practical, but their application can still lead to injustice.
Abraham Lincoln's quote highlights the complex nature of laws in society. While a law may align with constitutional principles and serve practical purposes, the way it is implemented can lead to unfair treatment and injustice. This underscores the importance of not only creating fair laws but also ensuring that they are administered justly.
Themes
LawJusticeConstitutionAdministrationUnfairness
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about legal reforms, this quote can highlight the need for equitable application of laws.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
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