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So as you're putting it, it doesn't matter, it's all the same either way whether we or don't have a legal system. So why punish people if they don't have free w
by apta 6y ago
So as you're putting it, it doesn't matter, it's all the same either way whether we or don't have a legal system. So why punish people if they don't have free will?
- vidarh 6y agoYou would have an interest in doing what minimises harm to society rather than for punishment. That means focusing on rehabilitation rather than vengeance. Consider that eg the US legal system has absolutely awful reoffending rates compared to eg Norway - it is geared for punishment rather than minimising harm.
- dragonwriter 6y ago> So as you're putting it, it doesn't matter, it's all the same either way whether we or don't have a legal system. No, I'm saying if we don't have free will, having a legal system or not isn't a choice either. If the actions a legal system might regulate are predetermined, so is whether or not we have a legal system, and what the nature of that system is. > So why punish people if they don't have free will? If we don't have free will, what does the question “Why?” even mean, other than asking for an explanation of the mechanical forces producing an outcome? Questions of purpose behind actions presuppose free will directing actions for a purpose.