“Rights are protected not by law but by the social and moral conscience of the society” – B R Ambedkar
Quote by B R Ambedkar
1. Meaning and significance:
This quote by B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent Indian jurist, economist, and social reformer, emphasizes the importance of societal values and collective morality in upholding rights, rather than relying solely on legal frameworks.
Ambedkar suggests that while laws can codify rights, their true protection stems from the shared ethical standards and social awareness of a community. This perspective highlights that the effectiveness of rights depends on widespread acceptance and internalization of their importance by society as a whole.
The quote’s significance lies in its challenge to the common belief that legal systems alone can guarantee rights. It underscores the need for cultivating a strong social and moral fabric to ensure the genuine protection and implementation of rights. This idea is particularly relevant in contexts where laws may exist on paper but fail to translate into real-world practices due to societal indifference or opposition.
2. Using the quote in an essay:
Ambedkar’s assertion that “Rights are protected not by law but by the social and moral conscience of the society” serves as a powerful reminder of the limitations of legal systems in safeguarding human rights. While legislation is crucial in establishing a framework for rights, it is the collective values and ethical standards of a community that ultimately determine their efficacy. This concept is particularly relevant when examining the disparities between legally enshrined rights and their practical implementation in various societies. By recognizing the importance of social and moral consciousness, we can better understand why certain rights may be upheld or neglected despite their legal status, and focus on strategies that cultivate a societal ethos conducive to protecting and promoting human rights.