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Full Idea
Laws they are not which public approbation hath not made so.
Gist of Idea
It is not a law if not endorsed by the public
Source
Richard Hooker (Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity [1593], I s.10), quoted by John Locke - Second Treatise of Government 134 n1
Book Ref
Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.184
A Reaction
Margaret Thatcher's Poll Tax, rejected by public rebellion, illustrates the point.
17005 | Natural things observe certain laws, and things cannot do otherwise if they retain their forms [Hooker,R] |
19896 | It is not a law if not endorsed by the public [Hooker,R] |
19891 | Rule of law is superior to autonomy, because citizens can see what is expected [Hooker,R] |
19897 | Human laws must accord with the general laws of Nature [Hooker,R] |