Did you really think that we want those laws to be observed? said Dr. Ferris. We want them broken. Youd better get it straight that its not a bunch of boy scouts youre up against - then youll know that this is not the age for beautiful gestures. Were after power and we mean it. You fellows were pikers, but we know the real trick, and youd better get wise to it. Theres no way to rule innocent men. The only power any government has is the power to crack down on criminals. Well, when there arent enough criminals, one makes them. One declares so many things to be a crime that it becomes impossible for men to live without breaking laws. Who wants a nation of law-abiding citizens? Whats there in that for anyone? But just pass the kind of laws that can neither be observed nor enforced nor objectively interpreted - and you create a nation of law-breakers - and then you cash in on guilt. Now, thats the system, Mr. Rearden, thats the game, and once you understand it, youll be much easier to deal with.
Ayn Rand, *Atlas Shrugged*
Great line. And so true.
Agreed, and agreed.