There is no human law or law of God or national law that states that any healthy being has to permit the snake to eat the mouse - but on the other hand, it is perfectly justified to defend the mouse.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author argues that while no law forces prey to accept predation, defense is justified.
- In plain terms
- Nothing requires the mouse to let the snake eat it, but defending the mouse is right.
- What can you take from it?
- Defense against harm is morally justified.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is defense justified?
- Do natural laws apply to humans?
Another view
The analogy oversimplifies complex human legal systems.
More from Ernst Kaltenbrunner
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