“If we do not maintain justice, justice will not maintain us.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
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Quote
“If we do not maintain justice, justice will not maintain us.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon emphasizes the reciprocal nature of justice—that it is not something that can be taken for granted. Bacon warns that if we do not actively uphold and protect justice in society, we risk losing its benefits, as justice itself is dependent on the actions of individuals and communities to be preserved. Just as society relies on laws and fair practices to maintain order, morality, and freedom, so too must individuals be committed to acting justly and ensuring that justice is maintained at both a personal and societal level. Without this collective commitment to fairness, justice will eventually be undermined, leaving society vulnerable to inequity, corruption, and chaos.
Bacon’s view reflects the growing Renaissance interest in ethics, law, and governance. During this period, philosophers and statesmen were increasingly concerned with the idea of social contracts and the role of justice in preserving social stability and well-being. Bacon, a philosopher and a figure involved in government, recognized that the health of a society is tied to its ability to maintain justice. For Bacon, justice is not a passive principle but an active process that must be constantly reinforced by the actions of both rulers and citizens.
In modern times, this quote remains highly relevant, especially in the context of civil rights, social justice, and law enforcement. The idea that justice must be actively maintained by individuals and institutions is a reminder that freedom, equality, and human rights can only be preserved when society works to ensure fairness and accountability for all. Bacon’s insight encourages a commitment to justice that requires constant vigilance, and underscores that without the active participation of everyone in upholding justice, it will not be able to protect or serve society.
