To cut short this question of the law of retaliation, we…
“To cut short this question of the law of retaliation, we must note that even in its primitive form it can operate only between two individuals of whom one is absolutely innocent and the other absolutely guilty. The victim, to be sure, is innocent. But can the society that is supposed to represent the victim lay claim to innocence?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Retaliation requires a clear innocent‑guilty pair, but societal representation of victims complicates claims of innocence.
In simple terms: Retaliation needs clear innocent and guilty parties.
Key Takeaway
Question collective innocence in justice.
Themes
justice
retaliation
society
Mood
critical
philosophical
Type
ethical
theoretical
When to use this quote
- politics
- ethics
Key Concepts
legal systems
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a society truly be innocent?
- How does collective guilt affect justice?
A Different Perspective
Societies often claim innocence despite systemic guilt.