Meaning: This quote by Hubert Humphrey, a prominent American politician, encapsulates the fundamental principle of the rule of law and the role of public support in upholding it. The essence of the quote highlights the importance of the people's support in ensuring the effectiveness and enforcement of laws within a society. In a broader context, it also underscores the significance of legitimacy and consensus in the governance and functioning of a legal framework.

Hubert Humphrey, a former Vice President of the United States and a champion of civil rights and social justice, was deeply committed to the idea that the power of the law ultimately rests on the consent and endorsement of the people it governs. This view aligns with the principles of democratic governance, where the rule of law is not imposed from above but rather emerges from the collective will and participation of the citizenry.

When Humphrey speaks of the inadequacy of jails, police, and courts to enforce a law that lacks the support of the people, he is pointing to a fundamental truth about the nature of law and its enforcement. While the institutions of law enforcement and adjudication play a crucial role in upholding the legal system, their effectiveness ultimately depends on the voluntary compliance and cooperation of the populace. Without the implicit or explicit consent of the people, the enforcement of laws becomes an arduous and often futile endeavor.

The quote also raises the question of legitimacy in governance. Laws that are not supported by the people run the risk of being perceived as illegitimate or unjust, leading to resistance, non-compliance, or outright defiance. History is replete with examples of laws and regimes that lost their legitimacy in the eyes of the populace, leading to widespread civil disobedience, social unrest, and, in extreme cases, revolution.

In a democratic society, the support of the people for the laws is essential for maintaining social order, justice, and stability. When laws align with the values, beliefs, and interests of the majority, they are more likely to be respected and upheld. Conversely, laws that are perceived as arbitrary, discriminatory, or oppressive are likely to face resistance and erode the fabric of a just and equitable society.

Hubert Humphrey's quote also carries implications for policymakers and legislators. It serves as a reminder that the process of lawmaking should be inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the diverse perspectives and needs of the population. Laws crafted without genuine input from the public are at risk of lacking the necessary support for effective implementation.

Moreover, the quote underscores the importance of engaging in dialogue and education to foster understanding and support for the laws. When the rationale and purpose of laws are effectively communicated to the public, it can cultivate a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to greater compliance and respect for the legal framework.

In conclusion, Hubert Humphrey's quote succinctly captures the interplay between the law, the state, and the people. It serves as a reminder of the intrinsic link between the legitimacy of laws and the support of the populace. Upholding the rule of law requires more than just the presence of law enforcement and judicial institutions; it necessitates the active endorsement and participation of the people. This timeless insight continues to resonate in the ongoing discourse on governance, justice, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens in societies around the world.