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About this quote

What does it mean?
Since laws often create more bigotry than religion does, there is little hope for old judges who uphold strict legal structures.
In plain terms
Laws can be more intolerant than religion, so don't expect much from old judges.
What can you take from it?
Legal systems can enforce bias more strongly than religion.

Where it applies

  • legal reform
  • judicial review
  • social justice

Putting it to work

  • critique legal structures
  • support judicial independence
  • seek fairness

Questions to consider

  • Do laws protect or restrict freedom?
  • Are judges agents of change or status quo?

Another view

Some legal frameworks are designed specifically to protect rights and reduce bias.

More from Thomas Jefferson

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  2. Politics, like religion, hold up the torches of martyrdom to the reformers of error.

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