On the record
Discussion can do nothing to prevent the enactment, or procure the repeal, of unjust laws, unless it be understood that, the discussion is to be followed by resistance.
Said by
Lysander Spooner
Source
gutenberg.orgLysander Spooner: “Discussion can do nothing to prevent the enactment, or procure the repeal, of unjust laws, unless it be understood that…”
Editor's note · Context
Spooner argues that mere discussion is insufficient to effect change unless it leads to active resistance against unjust laws.
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More from Lysander Spooner
On the contrary, they acknowledge themselves robbers, murderers, and villains, pure and simple.
They do not carry their heads high, above all other men, and demand our reverence and admiration, as statesmen, patriots, and benefactors.
They do not tell us that we are the freest and happiest people on earth, inasmuch as each of our male adults is allowed one voice in ten millions in the choice of the men, who are to rob, enslave, and murder us.
In short, they acknowledge themselves hostes humani generis: enemies of the human race.