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THIS law of nature, being co-eval with mankind and dictated by God himself, is of course superior in obligation to any other. It is binding over all the globe, in all countries, and at all times: no human laws are of any validity, if contrary to this; and such of them as are valid derive all their force, and all their authority, mediately or immediately, from this original.
William Blackstone
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Natural law is a fundamental principle that takes precedence over human-made laws.

The quote emphasizes the concept of natural law, which is believed to be inherent and universally applicable to all humanity. It suggests that laws created by humans hold no legitimacy if they conflict with the moral laws set by a higher authority, often perceived as God or nature, asserting that all valid laws ultimately derive their strength from these foundational principles.

Themes

Natural LawHuman RightsMoralityLegitimacyEthics

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate on human rights, one might reference this quote to underscore the importance of universal moral principles.

More from William Blackstone

It is better that ten guilty persons escape than one innocent suffer.
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That the king can do no wrong is a necessary and fundamental principle of the English constitution.
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There is nothing which so generally strikes the imagination and engages the affections of mankind, as the right of property.
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Law is the embodiment of the moral sentiment of the people.
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No enactment of man can be considered law unless it conforms to the law of God
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