May 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
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of consent and prior knowledge in the enactment of laws.
Marquis De Lafayette's quote highlights the foundational principle of democratic governance, where individuals are only bound by laws that they have agreed to, either directly or through their elected representatives. It underscores the necessity for laws to be made transparent and to have the consent of those they govern, thus promoting accountability and fairness in the legal system.
Themes
LawsConsentGovernanceDemocracyRepresentation
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate about law reform, one might say, 'As Marquis De Lafayette stated, no man can be subject to laws without consent.'
More from Marquis De Lafayette
All quotes →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
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
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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