In "Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar," the author, Thomas Cathcart, brings up the topic of the purpose of laws. He states the very common theories such as, "codify moral duties" and to "promote the virtuous character." Although these may be true, I think there is a more important theory. As Jeremy Bentham, a utilitarian, once said, "the purpose of laws is to produce the best consequences for the greatest number of people." The purpose of law is to in fact, protect the people.
As many can agree, most laws are morally correct. However, what's more important to note is that these laws are created in order to protect the people, not for the sake because it's morally correct. For example, in certain states there is a law where if there is someone on your property, you have the authorization to take disciplinary means. Although this is not morally correct because it allows you to kill someone, it is created for your protection. As I was reading, I was wondering where our morals came from? If you have an idea, please leave a comment.
Great post Finn! It does seem like morals and protection might overlap or clash when dealing with laws. To answer your question, I think morals originally came from the self-preservation of humans. For if laws and morals help to protect oursleves, we are really trying to spare the lives or prevent harm from coming to other humans. Thus, the instinct to protect our kind led to morals and laws.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Finn! I agree with you that although most laws seem morally correct, some laws like the one you mentioned about trespassing don't seem as ethical anymore. I think that all laws can be connected back to protection of the people. Though some laws seem harsh and maybe need to be improved based on our society today and how society is improving.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Finn! I agree that you that the laws that allow you to take disciplinary actions in the example you gave are unethical. These laws for our protection but they aren't morally correct. Theses laws need to be revised so that they are morally correct. Anyway, nice post Finn! :)
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