“Justice is what is established; and thus all our established laws will necessarily be regarded as just without examination, since they are established.”
- June 19, 1623 – August 19, 1662
- French
- Mathematician, Physicist, Inventor, Philosopher, Theologian
table of contents
Quote
“Justice is what is established; and thus all our established laws will necessarily be regarded as just without examination, since they are established.”
Explanation
Pascal critiques the human tendency to equate legality with justice, warning that established laws are often accepted as inherently just merely because they exist. People tend to confuse authority with moral legitimacy, assuming that what is instituted by tradition, power, or precedent must be right. In doing so, they abandon critical reflection, and justice becomes a function of habit and structure rather than ethical inquiry.
This insight aligns with Pascal’s broader skepticism in Pensées toward human institutions, customs, and the arbitrary foundations of social order. He frequently explores how convention and power often define “justice” more than truth or fairness, and how societies cloak their laws in moral language to preserve order. For Pascal, this is not merely a philosophical problem—it is a moral danger, because it discourages individuals from questioning whether what is lawful is also good.
In contemporary society, Pascal’s warning remains highly relevant. Legal systems, cultural norms, and political decisions are often accepted uncritically simply because they are codified or traditional. His quote urges us to recognize that justice demands more than legality—it requires ongoing examination, moral reasoning, and the courage to challenge the status quo. True justice is not what is merely established, but what withstands scrutiny under the light of conscience and truth.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
