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About this quote

What does it mean?
Law is a rational rule created by leaders to ensure the welfare of the community.
In plain terms
Rules made by leaders should be reasonable and help everyone.
What can you take from it?
Good laws are based on reason and public benefit.

Where it applies

  • legislative debates
  • policy making
  • civics education

Putting it to work

  • drafting regulations
  • evaluating laws
  • civic engagement

Questions to consider

  • What makes a law reasonable?
  • Who decides the common good?

Another view

The definition of 'common good' can vary widely between groups.

More from Thomas Aquinas

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