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
I shall ask for the abolition for the punishment of death until I have the infallibility of human judgment demonstrated to me.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses skepticism about the reliability of human judgment in matters of life and death.
Marquis De Lafayette emphasizes the importance of proven and infallible judgment before supporting the death penalty. His statement reflects a philosophical stance that questions the morality and validity of capital punishment, highlighting the need for certainty in human judgment before accepting such a severe consequence.
Themes
Death PenaltyHuman JudgmentInfallibilityMoralityCapital Punishment
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on criminal justice reform, one might use this quote to argue against the death penalty.
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
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
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