The possibility of divorce renders both marriage partners stricter in their observance of the duties they owe to each other. Divorces help to improve morals and to increase the population.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Diderot argues that the threat of divorce encourages spouses to adhere more strictly to marital duties, claiming this improves morals and population growth.
- In plain terms
- Knowing a marriage can end makes partners take their responsibilities more seriously.
- What can you take from it?
- Accountability can reinforce commitment in relationships.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does the threat of ending a relationship strengthen it?
- How do laws influence personal morality?
Another view
This view oversimplifies the complex causes of divorce and moral behavior.
More from Denis Diderot
Patriotism is an ephemeral motive that scarcely ever outlasts the particular threat to society that aroused it.
Permalink to quote #71 The general interest of the masses might take the place of the insight of genius if it were allowed freedom of action.
Permalink to quote #73 Morals are in all countries the result of legislation and government; they are not African or Asian or European: they are good or bad.
Permalink to quote #70
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