Full Idea
It is said that laws speak only of the universal, and do not prescribe with a view to particular circumstances, so that it is foolish to rule in any craft in accord with what is written down.
Gist of Idea
It is said that we should not stick strictly to written law, as it is too vague
Source
Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1286a10)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Reeve,C.D.C. [Hackett 2017], p.76
A Reaction
To say we shouldn't follow laws because they are all vague would be crazy. A vague border is still a border. Laws need interpretation, and judgement of appropriate application.
Related Idea
Idea 20932 Positive law needs secondary 'rules of recognition' for their correct application [Hart,HLA, by Zimmermann,J]