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NeCede's

Maxim 3.7.8

He who betrays his country is like the insane sailor who bores a hole in the ship that carries him.

Qui patriam prodit est similis insano nauta qui navem perfundit.

Source: 3 Inst. 36; Weisman, 34f Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

The officer who undermines the very system of law that gives him authority destroys his own foundation. Treason against the constitution is self-destruction.

Where this applies

  • A government official acts to undermine the very system they serve.
  • An elected representative works against the constitution they swore to uphold.

Legal domains

constitutionalsovereignty

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 3.7.8 — He who betrays his country is like the insane sailor who bores a hole in the ship that carries him. — 3 Inst. 36; Weisman, 34f (Qui patriam prodit est similis insano nauta qui navem perfundit.)

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