Meaning: This quote by Charles Davenport, a prominent scientist and eugenicist, captures the significance and power of custom as an unwritten law that holds even kings in awe. Custom refers to the traditional and widely accepted practices, behaviors, and beliefs within a particular society or culture. It encompasses the collective habits, norms, and values that have been passed down through generations and serve as a guide for social conduct. Custom is often deeply ingrained in a community and holds significant influence over the behaviors and decisions of individuals, including those in positions of power such as kings and rulers.

The concept of custom as an unwritten law reflects the idea that societal norms and traditions can wield a profound influence over the behavior and actions of people, regardless of their status or authority. While laws and regulations are typically written and enforced by governing bodies, custom operates on a more informal and ingrained level, shaping the attitudes and behaviors of individuals within a society. Even individuals in positions of authority, such as kings, are subject to the influence of custom, as it reflects the collective will and expectations of the people.

The quote suggests that custom serves as a check on the power of kings and rulers, highlighting the idea that even those in positions of authority are bound by the prevailing customs and traditions of the society they govern. This notion aligns with the broader concept of the social contract, which posits that rulers derive their legitimacy and authority from the consent and customs of the governed. In this sense, custom acts as a mechanism for maintaining social order and holding those in power accountable to the values and expectations of the community.

Furthermore, the quote speaks to the enduring nature of custom as a force that transcends individual rulers and spans across generations. Custom is not subject to the whims of a particular monarch or leader; rather, it represents a collective and enduring set of norms and practices that shape the fabric of a society over time. As such, even kings, who may wield considerable authority, are bound by the customs that have been established and upheld by the people over centuries.

In the context of Charles Davenport's work as a scientist and eugenicist, the quote may also carry additional connotations related to social order and the influence of prevailing customs on notions of hierarchy and authority. Davenport was known for his controversial views on eugenics, a field of study concerned with improving the genetic quality of the human population. Within this framework, the quote could be interpreted as highlighting the role of custom in reinforcing social hierarchies and maintaining the prevailing order, including the power dynamics between rulers and the broader populace.

In conclusion, Charles Davenport's quote eloquently captures the enduring influence of custom as an unwritten law that holds even kings in awe. It underscores the profound impact of societal norms and traditions on the behavior of individuals, including those in positions of authority, and speaks to the enduring nature of custom as a force that transcends individual rulers. The quote invites reflection on the relationship between power, tradition, and social order, and the ways in which custom serves as a check on the authority of leaders within a given society.