"When we violate the law ourselves, whatever short-term advantage may be gained, we are obviously encouraging others to violate the law; we thus encourage disorder and instability and thereby do incalculable damage to our own long-term interests"

J. William Fulbright’s statement highlights the principle that respect for law is foundational to social order and trust. He presents the argument that even if breaking the law offers immediate or apparent advantages, such actions carry substantial long-term consequences that outweigh these benefits. When leaders, governments, or even ordinary citizens disregard established rules, they set a precedent that others are likely to follow. This cascading effect leads to a broader cultural erosion of lawful behavior, undermining the very fabric of society.

By taking the law into our own hands or ignoring its constraints, we inadvertently give tacit approval for similar conduct by those around us. This not only diminishes mutual trust but also weakens institutions designed to provide consistency and fairness. The resulting instability opens the door to arbitrary actions and conflicts, where rules can no longer be relied upon to arbitrate disputes or outline acceptable conduct. Disorder emerges in such an environment because there is no longer a shared understanding or expectation of behavior, making cooperation and progress far more difficult.

The “incalculable damage” referenced speaks to the difficulty in quantifying the long-term harm caused by undermining legal standards. Disregard for the law can foster cynicism, diminish participation in civic life, and stifle both innovation and economic growth due to uncertainty and risk. For nations and organizations, it can erode moral authority and global standing, making it difficult to command respect or promote certain values abroad. Ultimately, Fulbright’s caution is a reminder that shortcuts taken for immediate gain may have unforeseen consequences that jeopardize future stability, prosperity, and unity. Enduring advantages are built not on expediency, but on adherence to principles that maintain order and cultivate a sense of shared purpose.