Certain Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“The fact that the evil ones, as long as they live, can be corrected from their errors does not prohibit that they may be justly executed, for the danger which threatens from their way of life is greater and more certain than the good which may be expected from their improvement.”
About This Quote
Source Summa Theologica, Part I, Question 71, Article 2
Justice may require execution when a person's harmful way of life poses a greater threat than any possible reform.
In simple terms: Evil may be executed if they remain dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Consider the balance of danger versus potential good.
Themes
justice
danger
reform
ethics
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- judicial sentencing
- war crimes
- public safety policy
- criminal rehabilitation
Key Concepts
natural law
moral calculus
punishment
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever morally permissible to end a life to prevent future harm?
- How can we assess the certainty of danger versus potential good?
A Different Perspective
Execution ignores the possibility of future redemption or error in judgment.
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