Even if a civil society were to be dissolved by the consent of all its members (e.g., if a people inhabiting an island decided to separate and disperse throughout the world), the last murderer remaining in prison would first have to be executed, so that each has done to him what his deeds deserve and blood guilt does not cling to the people for not having insisted upon this punishment; for otherwise the people can be regarded as collaborators in his public violation of justice. [Kt6:333]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Justice must be carried out even if society dissolves to avoid collective guilt.
- In plain terms
- Even if everyone leaves prison, the last criminal must be punished for justice.
- What can you take from it?
- Punishment serves justice beyond social order.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is punishment for the sake of order?
- Who bears responsibility for justice?
Another view
Execution may not prevent all forms of injustice.
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