This quote is an observation about the delicate balance needed in creating and enforcing laws. On one hand, if laws are too lenient, people might not take them seriously and hence, disobey them. On the other hand, if laws are excessively harsh, they may be so intimidating or unachievable that they are rarely carried out or implemented.
The quote suggests that for laws to be effective, they need to strike a balance between being firm enough to command respect and obedience, but not so harsh that they become impractical or inhumane to enforce. This balance is crucial in maintaining order and justice in society.
Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see it reflected in debates about criminal justice reform. For instance, overly severe laws can lead to mass incarceration and societal unrest, as seen in many parts of the world. However, if punishments are too lenient, they may not deter crime and can lead to a breakdown in social order.
In terms of personal development, this quote might be interpreted as a call for balance and moderation in setting personal goals or self-discipline. If you set standards for yourself that are too low, you might not feel challenged and hence, not strive to improve. Conversely, if you set excessively harsh or unrealistic standards, you may feel overwhelmed and give up. Therefore, it is important to set goals that are challenging yet achievable, and to discipline oneself in a way that promotes growth without causing undue stress or demotivation.
