Brigham Young: 'I want to live perfectly above the law, and make it my servant instead of my master.'

I want to live perfectly above the law, and make it my servant instead of my master.

In his famous quote, "I want to live perfectly above the law, and make it my servant instead of my master," Brigham Young succinctly captures his desire to transcend the limitations imposed by laws and regulations, while simultaneously leveraging them to serve his higher purpose. At first glance, this statement may seem audacious or even rebellious, as it challenges the commonly held notion that laws are inviolable and should govern every aspect of our lives. However, upon deeper examination, Young's quote opens up a philosophical discourse on the nature of law, personal autonomy, and the potential for individuals to shape and redefine their relationship with the legal system.At its core, this quote signifies Young's aspiration to transcend the constraints of legal confinement in order to lead a life that aligns with his own moral and ethical compass. It reflects his belief that laws should not be blindly followed without critical evaluation, but rather individuals should strive for a higher, more enlightened understanding of how laws can be harmoniously integrated into their lives. By perceiving the law as a servant rather than a master, Young implies that he aims to utilize it as a tool to advance his values and principles, rather than allowing it to dictate and limit his actions.The importance of Young's quote lies in its call to question the notion of blind obedience to the law and to foster a sense of personal agency and responsibility in navigating the legal landscape. It encourages individuals to critically analyze the purpose and impact of various laws, considering whether they genuinely serve the betterment of society or if they have the potential to hinder personal growth and freedom. It prompts people to engage in a philosophical exploration of the moral and ethical dimensions of law, urging them to evaluate their relationship with it and seek ways to live harmoniously while maintaining personal integrity.Introducing an unexpected philosophical concept to further enrich the discussion, let us explore the contrasting view of legal positivism. Legal positivism suggests that the legitimacy and authority of the law are derived solely from its source, such as legislation or judicial decisions, without consideration of its morality or ethical content. This approach emphasizes the importance of respecting and adhering to the law regardless of personal values or beliefs, prioritizing social order and stability above individual autonomy.While legal positivism ensures uniformity and predictability, it inadvertently promotes conformity and discourages critical thinking and moral discernment. Conversely, Young's quote challenges such conformity by urging individuals to exercise their intellectual and ethical autonomy, constantly questioning and reevaluating the laws that govern them.In essence, Young's quote serves as a catalyst for philosophical contemplation about the nature of law, personal autonomy, and moral responsibility. It encourages us to view laws as flexible instruments that can be harnessed to serve our higher purposes, rather than as rigid constraints that restrict our freedom. By questioning the blind obedience often associated with the legal system, Young invites individuals to critically engage with the law, stimulating discussions and efforts aimed at achieving a more harmonious relationship between personal values and societal norms.In conclusion, Brigham Young's quote, "I want to live perfectly above the law, and make it my servant instead of my master," challenges conventional notions of law by promoting an active and thoughtful evaluation of its purpose and impact in our lives. By encouraging individuals to transcend blind obedience and instead utilize the law as a tool to advance personal values and principles, Young opens up a philosophical discourse on the nature of law, personal autonomy, and the pursuit of a harmonious existence. Through this quote, he reminds us of the importance of critical thinking, as well as the potential for individuals to redefine their relationship with the legal system, fostering a society that upholds both personal integrity and the common good.