Law has no skin, reason has no nostrils.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote, "Law has no skin, reason has no nostrils," underscores the nature of law and reason as abstract constructs, devoid of physical or sensory attributes. It suggests that both law and reason operate independently of the human senses and physical characteristics, emphasizing their conceptual rather than tangible nature.
To understand the first part of the quote, "Law has no skin," consider that laws are created to govern behavior and maintain order within societies. Unlike living beings, laws do not have physical form or sensations. They are intangible rules and principles that guide how people should act and interact. This means that laws are not subject to physical experiences or changes; they are applied uniformly regardless of the individual circumstances or personal attributes of those involved. This concept highlights the idea that the law is designed to be impartial and consistent, focusing on adherence to rules rather than the personal characteristics of those who must follow them.
The second part, "Reason has no nostrils," extends this idea to reason or rational thinking. Reason, unlike physical objects, does not have sensory perceptions or physical limitations. It operates purely on logic and understanding, unaffected by sensory input or emotional influences. This suggests that reason is intended to be objective and rational, relying on intellectual processes rather than sensory experiences. Just as reason cannot smell or taste, it is not swayed by the subjective and sensory aspects of human experience. Instead, it seeks to understand and solve problems based on logical analysis and evidence.
Together, the quote reflects a philosophical perspective on the nature of law and reason. It emphasizes that while humans are sensory and physical beings, the constructs of law and reason transcend these limitations. They are designed to function as abstract, impartial, and rational frameworks that guide human behavior and thought, independent of the sensory experiences that characterize our physical existence.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Law has no skin, reason has no nostrils." is often attributed to Jose Rizal (Quotes). Jose Rizal was a Filipino nationalist and writer, considered a hero in the Philippines' struggle for independence from Spanish colonial rule.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
