In Cormac McCarthy's "No Country for Old Men," a compelling observation is made regarding the nature of governance. The quote highlights the idea that well-intentioned individuals require minimal oversight to adhere to societal norms and laws. This suggests that good people are innately guided by their morals, making governance a straightforward task when they are at the helm.

Conversely, the quote also underscores the challenge of governing those with malicious intent. It implies that individuals who are inherently bad resist control and cannot be managed effectively. This stark contrast between the behaviors of good and bad people presents a cynical view of humanity, questioning the effectiveness of governance in the face of malevolence.