The whole Constitution has been erected upon the assumption that the King not only is capable of doing wrong but is more likely to do wrong than other men if he is given the chance.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The Constitution assumes the King is human and prone to error, so power must be checked.
- In plain terms
- The system is built on the idea that even kings make mistakes.
- What can you take from it?
- Checks on power are necessary because leaders are fallible.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How much trust should leaders get?
- What checks protect us?
Another view
Assuming leaders will do wrong can undermine necessary trust.
More from A. P. Herbert
Justice should be cheap but judges expensive.
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