The Adventures of King Pausole - by Pierre Louys

Date read: 2023-02-17
Tags: The State
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Key ideas: The code of government of the legendary King Pausole prescribed but two laws for his subjects: the first being, Hurt no man. Then do as you please. Published 1901.

NOTES

Code of Tryphenia

In order to simplify the Book of Laws bequeathed by his ancestors, Pausole had produced a code consisting of two articles, and one which at least had the privilege of holding the ear of the people. Here it is in its entirety:

I. Thou shalt not harm thy neighbor.
II. This being understood, do as thou wouldst.

It is superfluous to remind the reader that the second of these articles is not contained in the laws of any civilised country/ It was precisely that one which was most obeyted by the people. I do not hide from the fact this shocks the minds of my fellow-citizens.