“Never stir up litigation. A worse man can scarcely be found than one who does this.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Never stir up litigation. A worse man can scarcely be found than one who does this.”
Explanation
Abraham Lincoln’s warning against stirring up litigation reflects his deep belief in the importance of peace and fairness in society, especially when it comes to legal matters. By advising against encouraging lawsuits, Lincoln emphasizes the destructive nature of legal conflicts that are unnecessary or driven by personal gain. He implies that individuals who instigate lawsuits—especially frivolous or malicious ones—are morally worse than those who merely defend themselves. This perspective aligns with Lincoln’s broader philosophy that justice and reconciliation should be the priority, and that the legal system should not be abused as a tool for vendettas or to harm others.
In Lincoln’s time, as in ours, the legal system was sometimes used for personal vendettas or as a means of gaining an advantage in business or politics. Lincoln’s own background as a lawyer in Illinois meant that he had seen firsthand the negative impact of excessive litigation on communities and individuals. His advice reflects the belief that the spirit of cooperation and resolution is more valuable than an endless pursuit of legal battles. This view also highlights Lincoln’s characteristic pragmatism—he understood that while law is necessary for a just society, it can also be a weapon in the wrong hands, leading to prolonged conflict rather than resolution.
In modern terms, Lincoln’s words remain relevant as a caution against exploiting the legal system for selfish purposes. In today’s world, where lawsuits can be used for everything from personal grudges to corporate warfare, his advice underscores the importance of resolving disputes amicably whenever possible. It calls for an understanding that litigation, especially when unnecessary, can be harmful not only to the parties involved but also to the social fabric of society. Examples today include frivolous lawsuits designed to intimidate or coerce, as well as cases where people or companies use the legal system to delay justice or gain financial leverage. Lincoln’s perspective challenges us to consider whether legal actions are truly in pursuit of justice or simply personal retribution.
