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Single Idea 19896

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / C. Rights / 1. Basis of Rights]

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

A Reaction

Margaret Thatcher's Poll Tax, rejected by public rebellion, illustrates the point.

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.184