Injustice

The proverb "laws catch flies, but let hornets go free" originates from Jonathan Swift's satirical work, 'A Tritical Essay upon the Faculties of the Human Soul' (1707). It highlights the imbalance in how justice is administered, suggesting that the legal system tends to target the weak while allowing the powerful to evade punishment. The proverb serves as a reminder of the potential flaws in a system where justice is not applied equally to all.

The origin of the proverb "one law for the rich and another for the poor" is unclear, but it reflects a long-standing belief that the legal system often favors the wealthy and powerful. It serves as a critique of social inequality, where access to justice and favorable treatment are often influenced by one's status rather than the principles of fairness. The proverb underscores the importance of a truly impartial legal system that treats all individuals equally, regardless of their financial standing.

The origin of the proverb "some are more equal than others" comes from George Orwell's novella 'Animal Farm.' In the story, the phrase is used ironically to criticize the hypocrisy of leaders who, after overthrowing an oppressive system, create a new one where they maintain power and privilege over others. The saying highlights the inconsistency in how equality is applied, suggesting that certain individuals or groups receive special treatment or advantages, despite the claim of equal rights or fairness. It serves as a reminder of the potential for inequality even in systems that claim equality, often due to power imbalances or corruption.

The origin of the proverb "when elephants fight, the grass gets trampled" is believed to come from African wisdom. It highlights the unintended harm caused to those who are not directly involved in the conflict but who bear the impact of its effects. While it emphasizes the destructive impact of powerful disputes, it also serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of the less powerful when against larger forces.

The origin of the proverb "the wholesomest meat is at another man's cost" is not definitively documented, but it appears in various cultures with similar sentiments. It serves as a reminder of the unfairness that can be present in the distribution of wealth, resources, or opportunities. While it acknowledges that rewards may sometimes come through others' efforts, it also encourages awareness of this inequality and the importance of fairness and justice in society.

The proverb "justice delayed is justice denied" is often attributed to British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone, who used it in 1868, although similar sentiments have appeared in legal and philosophical writings long before. The saying stresses that delays in the legal system or in addressing wrongs can cause harm, as victims may suffer further while wrongdoers go unpunished. It serves as a reminder of the importance of swift action in ensuring fairness and accountability, highlighting that waiting too long for justice can be as harmful as not receiving it at all.

The origin of the proverb "little thieves are hanged, but great ones escape" is unclear, as it reflects a common sentiment that has appeared in various forms across different cultures and philosophical traditions. This saying highlights the inequality in how justice is often applied, reflecting the disparity between the treatment of the poor or powerless and the privileged. It serves as a reminder of the potential corruption and imbalance in legal and societal structures, where the consequences for crime are not always fair or equal.

The origin of the proverb "the devil looks after his own" is not well-documented, but it has been used in various forms throughout history. The saying implies that evil or dishonest actions may sometimes go unpunished or even be rewarded, highlighting a perceived imbalance in how the world operates. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of morality and justice, suggesting that the outcomes of one's actions are not always as they should be.

The proverb "it is all Lombard Street to a China orange" originates from 19th-century British slang. Lombard Street, located in London, was historically associated with banking and financial power, while a China orange was considered a rare and valuable fruit. The saying suggests that a particular situation or competition is heavily tilted in favor of one side, often to the point of being unfair or one-sided. It highlights the imbalance of power or advantage, implying that the outcome is almost certain due to the overwhelming favor of one party. The expression may also serve as a cautionary reminder to recognize and address disparities in opportunities or resources.