Like Midas, the Rationalist is always in the unfortunate position of not being able to touch anything, without transforming it into an abstraction; he can never get a square meal of experience.
Michael Joseph OakeshottRead
The rule of law bakes no bread, it is unable to distribute loaves or fishes (it has none), and it cannot protect itself against external assault, but it remains the most civilized and least burdensome conception of a state yet to be devised.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The rule of law establishes order but does not directly provide for material needs or defense.
In this quote, Oakeshott highlights that while the rule of law is essential for a civilized society, it does not function as a provider of basic necessities or a protector against threats. Rather, it sets the framework for governance and a sense of justice, emphasizing its significance as a concept despite its limitations in practical terms.
Themes
Rule Of LawCivilizationGovernanceJusticeSociety
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on the importance of legal frameworks in a civilized society.
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