Justice

She can still see how much money you have

A sense of fairness and justice in society is essential to its happiness and well-being.

When large segments of the population feel oppressed, like all the incentives of the system are stacked against them and their hopes for a better life, it is impossible for those people be as happy as they would be in a fair and just society.

This page will outline the key factors required to make a system of laws and enforcement that maximizes the prevailing sense of justice in a society.

Legal Systems

Equal protection under the law must be rigorously protected in the incentive structures built into every aspect of our judicial, legislative and bureaucratic systems.

Legalism

Stage 4 of Kholberg's moral development progression is where the majority of conservatives currently stand. The notion that "if it's legal then it's OK, if it's illegal then it's bad" provides a simple framework for understanding and conforming to the rules of society.

The source of legality can come from any authority, be it government, religion, family, or employer. It is hierarchical and simple. Just do whatever the authority figure says.

The problems with this mindset are:

• It opposes necessary changes to the law, such as the legalization of recreational drugs and other victimless crimes.
• It encourages malicious prosecution and selective enforcement
• Unethical but not illegal acts are seen as clever workarounds instead of violations of social norms, such as the many attempts to circumvent the results of the 2022 election in the US.

Crime and Punishment

Justice must also weigh the healing power of retribution against the redemptive nature of arbitrary punishment and find its incentives lacking. In the happiest countries, forgiveness, redemption and rehabilitation are prioritized over retribution, reducing recidivism. Ironically it is the least religious countries that reflect the values of Jesus in their judicial systems.

What role does punishment play in a society that maximizes happiness?

Civil Law

What is the best way to resolve non-criminal disputes between people? How can fairness and justice be maximized in the civil system?

Policing

Evidence-Based Best Practices for effective policing that reduces crime, catches criminals and avoids prosecuting the innocent, and maintains positive community relationships.

Justice and Legal Philosophy Videos

A short 10 minute introduction to the philosophy of justice and a 12 part Harvard lecture series. There are no in-betweens!

What is Justice?

Harvard Lecture Series on Justice

Metallica - ...and Justice for All