But, he said to himself, whether they knew or didn't know is not the main issue; the main issue is whether a man is innocent because he didn't know. Is a fool on the throne relieved of all responsibility merely because he is a fool?
The quote reflects a profound philosophical inquiry regarding the nature of innocence and responsibility. The character contemplates whether ignorance can absolve a person from their actions and consequences. This raises questions about the fundamental fairness of judging individuals based solely on their knowledge or lack thereof.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the complexities of moral accountability, suggesting that being unaware does not necessarily equate to being blameless. The idea that even a fool in a position of power must bear responsibility for their actions challenges us to consider the ethical implications of leadership and decision-making, regardless of one's understanding.