People are getting smarter nowadays; they are letting lawyers, instead of their conscience, be their guide.

The quote "People are getting smarter nowadays; they are letting lawyers, instead of their conscience, be their guide" by Will Rogers humorously critiques the growing reliance on legal advice over personal morality. Rogers is suggesting that, in modern times, people often turn to lawyers for guidance in making decisions, even when those decisions might conflict with their inner sense of right and wrong. By comparing lawyers to conscience, he implies that legal considerations, which are often focused on technicalities or self-interest, are becoming more influential than personal integrity or ethical values.

The origin of this quote comes from Rogers’ work as a humorist and social commentator, where he often used satire to address societal changes. Known for his witty remarks on American politics and culture, Rogers was keenly aware of how the growing influence of the legal profession was changing the way people approached moral and ethical issues. He believed that, as people became more litigious and focused on legal solutions, they were losing sight of basic principles of morality.

Rogers’ statement also highlights the tension between the legal system and personal ethics. In his view, reliance on lawyers for guidance might encourage people to prioritize legal outcomes—which may not always align with what is morally right—over the principles of honesty and integrity. His comment reflects a concern that society was becoming more focused on legal strategies rather than making decisions based on conscience.

In essence, Rogers is critiquing the shift in societal values, where lawyers are seen as the primary authority on what is acceptable or permissible, rather than the individual’s own moral compass. His quote serves as a reminder to consider personal integrity and ethical responsibility, even in situations where legal advice may be available.