“The law is reason, free from passion.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
Quote
“The law is reason, free from passion.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle highlights that law should be based on rational thought and objective reasoning, not influenced by emotions or personal biases. The idea is that laws must be grounded in logic, justice, and principles of fairness, without being swayed by anger, envy, or personal gain. A just legal system operates according to principles that can be applied universally and impartially, ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and equitably. Passion, when introduced into law, often leads to injustice, as it distorts the ability to make rational and balanced decisions.
This concept is highly relevant in modern legal systems, where justice and due process are fundamental principles. Ideally, judges, lawmakers, and law enforcement are expected to make decisions based on facts, evidence, and principles of justice, not influenced by personal feelings or prejudices. For instance, laws should not be made or enforced out of revenge or anger but should be rooted in the goal of upholding fairness and social order.
For example, when a court case is decided, the ruling should be based on the evidence presented and the law itself, not on the judge’s personal emotions toward the defendant or the crime. Similarly, the creation of laws should be driven by reasoned debate and logical frameworks that consider the long-term impact on society, rather than being shaped by emotional responses to specific events. Aristotle’s view encourages us to create systems of governance and justice that are grounded in reason and rationality, ensuring fairness and objectivity in all decisions.
