And this is conceded
indirectly even by those who turn metaphysics into ridicule, when they
say, as they often do: "The best constitution is that in which not men
but laws exercise the power." For what can be more metaphysically
sublime in its own way than this very idea of theirs, which
according to their own assertion has, notwithstanding, the most
objective reality? This may be easily shown by reference to actual
instances. And it is this very idea, which alone can be carried out
practically, if it is not forced on in a revolutionary and sudden
way by violent overthrow of the existing defective constitution; for
this would produce for the time the momentary annihilation of the
whole juridical state of society. But if the idea is carried forward
by gradual reform and in accordance with fixed principles, it may lead
by a continuous approximation to the highest political good, and to
perpetual peace.
-THE END-
.
Pages:
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213