Mark Twain: 'Laws control the lesser man... Right conduct controls the greater one.'

Laws control the lesser man... Right conduct controls the greater one.

Laws control the lesser man... Right conduct controls the greater one.' This quote by Mark Twain captures a profound truth about the nature of human behavior and the role of both legal systems and personal ethics in guiding our actions. At its core, the quote suggests that while laws may serve as a framework for maintaining order, it is ultimately an individual's own moral compass that shapes their conduct. However, delving deeper into this notion, we encounter an unexpected philosophical concept that challenges our understanding of morality and the origins of right conduct.In a straightforward sense, this quote reminds us that laws exist to regulate society and govern the behavior of its members. They establish a baseline for acceptable conduct, defining what is permissible and what is not. Whether it be traffic regulations, property rights, or principles of contract law, laws aim to create a system of order where individuals can coexist harmoniously while their rights and interests are protected.Yet, the quote also suggests that laws alone are not enough to ensure proper behavior. They are meant to control the "lesser man," those with inadequate self-restraint or questionable ethics. This implies that while laws can deter some individuals from engaging in harmful actions, they cannot fully dictate or shape an individual's character.This is where the concept of personal ethics comes into play. Right conduct, as Twain suggests, is governed by an individual's own sense of morality and their commitment to doing what is morally right, regardless of legal constraints. While laws provide a minimum threshold for behavior, personal ethics transcend these boundaries and guide individuals to act based on more profound principles.Here, we must ask ourselves, where does this sense of right conduct originate? Are moral values intrinsic to humanity, or are they socially constructed? Traditional views may attribute right conduct to religious or cultural teachings, asserting that ethics are derived from an external source such as divine commandments or societal norms.However, an interesting philosophical concept called moral relativism challenges this notion. According to moral relativism, it is argued that moral values are not absolute and objective but rather relative and subjective. This means that what is considered right or wrong can vary from person to person, culture to culture, or even across different moments in history.While this concept may initially seem contradictory to the idea of personal ethics, it provides insight into the complexity of human behavior. It recognizes that individual moral compasses can be influenced by the environment, upbringing, experiences, and cultural context. However, it also suggests that personal ethics are not entirely arbitrary but instead shaped by a combination of internal and external factors.Returning to Twain's quote, we can see a connection between personal ethics and right conduct. While laws may serve as a guide, personal ethics act as the compass that directs how one chooses to interpret and adhere to those laws. It is the difference between merely following the rules and actively embodying the principles behind them.In this light, the quote encourages us to reflect on our own moral compass and the source of our ethics. It calls us to evaluate whether our conduct is solely based on legal compliance or if we strive for a higher standard of right conduct that aligns with our deepest values and beliefs.Ultimately, laws control the lesser man because they provide a framework for maintaining social order and preventing chaos. However, it is the personal ethics and commitment to right conduct that allow the greater person to transcend these limitations and act in alignment with their values. It is within this context that the full potential of individuals to make positive contributions to society can be realized.In conclusion, Mark Twain's quote delves into the relationship between laws and personal ethics, emphasizing that while laws are necessary for societal order, they alone are insufficient in shaping our conduct. The quote encourages us to recognize the importance of personal ethics and the role they play in our decision-making processes. By going beyond mere compliance and embracing right conduct, we can elevate ourselves to become the greater person who positively influences the world around us.