This quote expresses the idea that laws, despite being codified and established, should not be considered infallible or unchangeable. It recognizes that as societies evolve, so too should the laws that govern them. Just because something has been written down as a law doesn’t mean it is eternally appropriate or just. Laws should be dynamic, not static, and should be re-evaluated and altered when necessary to reflect the changing realities and values of society.
This concept is highly relevant in today’s world. For instance, consider the laws around civil rights. In the past, laws permitted segregation and denied women the right to vote. As societal attitudes shifted, these laws were recognized as unjust and were subsequently changed. This shows that laws are not inherently moral or just, but are a reflection of the values of the time. Therefore, they must be open to change as societal values evolve.
In terms of personal development, this quote encourages flexibility and adaptability. Just as laws should not remain unaltered, neither should personal beliefs or behaviors. We should be willing to reassess and adjust our actions and attitudes as we grow and learn. For example, a person might have grown up with a certain belief system that, upon exposure to new information or experiences, they find no longer aligns with their understanding of the world. In this case, it would be beneficial for them to ‘alter their laws’, so to speak, and adopt a new perspective that better reflects their evolved understanding.
In conclusion, this quote emphasizes the importance of adaptability, both in societal laws and personal beliefs. It serves as a reminder that change is not only inevitable but also necessary for growth and progress.
