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 Reference
Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.184
A Reaction
Margaret Thatcher's Poll Tax, rejected by public rebellion, illustrates the point.