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NeCede's

Maxim 7.6.4

Evil does not have an efficient cause, but a deficient one.

Malum non habet efficientem, sed deficientem causam.

Source: 3 Inst. Proem.; Weisman, 78l Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

Evil arises not from the creation of something new but from the failure or corruption of what should be good — wrongdoing is a deficiency, not a creative act.

Where this applies

  • Evil arises from a failure to do what is right, not from creating something new.
  • Corruption in government comes from neglecting duties, not from some positive act.

Legal domains

interpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 7.6.4 — Evil does not have an efficient cause, but a deficient one. — 3 Inst. Proem.; Weisman, 78l (Malum non habet efficientem, sed deficientem causam.)

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