Ethics evolve naturally, and we trample upon them with laws created by reason and experience.

This quote suggests that ethics, or moral principles, develop naturally over time as a result of human interaction and societal growth. They are an inherent part of our human nature, a kind of instinctive understanding of right and wrong that evolves with our collective experiences. However, these naturally evolved ethics can be overridden or suppressed by laws, which are created through rational thinking and past experiences.

The quote implies a tension between these two systems of guiding behavior: the innate, evolving ethics and the consciously created laws. The phrase “trample upon them” suggests that laws, in their attempt to regulate behavior and maintain order, can sometimes violate these natural ethics, imposing rationality and practicality over moral instinct.

In today’s world, this idea can be seen in various socio-political issues. For example, consider the debate over immigration laws. On one hand, there are laws which are created based on economic considerations, national security concerns, and past experiences. On the other hand, there are ethical considerations of human rights, empathy, and compassion. Sometimes, the enforcement of these laws may seem to trample upon these ethical considerations.

On a personal development level, this quote could inspire us to reflect on our own values and ethics, and how they align with the laws or rules we live by. It’s a call to not let external rules completely dictate our actions, but to also listen to our internal moral compass. It reminds us that while laws and rules are necessary for societal order, they should not completely suppress our inherent sense of right and wrong. We should strive for a balance between adhering to societal laws and maintaining our personal ethics.