'Basic moral values must therefore first be internalised in the hearts and minds of its people before we can hope to enforce legislation reflecting these values. We cannot begin to observe man-made laws if we do not have any moral values to start off with in the first place.' (18 May 2000)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Moral values must be internalized before laws reflecting them can be effectively observed.
- In plain terms
- First teach morals, then enforce laws based on them.
- What can you take from it?
- Instill values before legal enforcement.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can law shape morality, or only the reverse?
- What happens when moral consensus is absent?
Another view
People may reject laws even with strong moral teaching if they conflict with personal interests.
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