No man can be subject to any laws, excepting those which have received the assent of himself or his representatives and which are promulgated beforehand and applied legally.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Natural rights should be exercised without infringing on the rights of others.
Marquis De Lafayette emphasizes that while individuals possess natural rights, the exercise of these rights must be balanced with the responsibility to ensure that the rights of others are not violated. This principle suggests that freedom and personal rights come with a societal obligation to respect and protect the rights and freedoms of fellow individuals.
Themes
Natural RightsFreedomSocietyResponsibilityBalance
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about civil liberties, one might say Lafayette's quote highlights the necessity of considering others' rights.
More from Marquis De Lafayette
All quotes βMay the States be so bound to each other as forever to defy European politics. Upon that union, their consequence, their happiness, will depend. This is the first wish of a heart more truly American than words can express.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
Insurrection is the most sacred of rights and the most indispensable of duties.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
True republicanism is the sovereignty of the people. There are natural and imprescriptible rights which an entire nation has no right to violate.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The affairs of America I shall ever look upon as my first business whilst I am in Europe. Any confidence from the king and ministers, any popularity I may have among my own countrymen, any means in my power, shall be, to the best of my skill, and till the end of my life, exerted in behalf of an interest I have so much at heart.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
When the government violates the people's rights, insurrection is, for the people and for each portion of the people, the most sacred of the rights and the most indispensible of duties.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
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