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About this quote

What does it mean?
A well-paid lawyer will find the case he argues more just.
In plain terms
Money makes a lawyer see his cause as more righteous.
What can you take from it?
Beware of bias introduced by prior payment.

Where it applies

  • legal defense
  • political lobbying

Putting it to work

  • disclose fees
  • seek independent counsel

Questions to consider

  • How does payment affect judgment?
  • Can one stay objective after being paid?

Another view

Professional integrity can counteract financial bias.

More from Blaise Pascal

  1. All these examples of wretchedness prove his greatness. It is the wretchedness of a great lord, the wretchedness of a dispossessed king. (425)

    Permalink to quote #9
  2. Anyone who found the secret of rejoicing when things go well without being annoyed when they go badly would have found the point. (181)

    Permalink to quote #11
  3. Tout notre raisonnement se reduit a ceder au sentiment. (274)

    Permalink to quote #8

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