The quote “It is not wisdom but authority that makes a law,” attributed to political philosopher Thomas Hobbes and referenced by Tymoff, emphasizes a fundamental aspect of legal theory and practice. This assertion suggests that the power to create and enforce laws is primarily derived from authority rather than wisdom. In other words, while wisdom may guide the content and effectiveness of laws, it is ultimately the authority that dictates their implementation. This article explores the roles of authority and wisdom in lawmaking, examining their implications for modern legal systems, and addressing the criticisms and debates surrounding this concept.
