Understanding Legal Systems and Criminal Justice
What is Law?
Law is a set of rules created by a government to control behavior in society. It keeps people safe, resolves conflicts fairly, and protects rights. Breaking a law leads to consequences such as fines or jail. Example: Stopping at a red light prevents accidents.
What is Criminality?
Criminality is the act of breaking the law. These actions harm society as a whole, not just individuals. The government investigates and punishes crimes. Example: Stealing from a store is a crime against the community.
What is the Rule of Law?
The Rule of Law means everyone—citizens and government—is equal before the law. Laws must be fair, clear, and applied equally. No one is above the law. Example: A president must follow legal procedures and can be punished if they break the law.
Key Legal Definitions
- Prison Without Parole: A life sentence where the prisoner will never be released and cannot ask for parole.
- War Criminal: A person who commits serious crimes during war, such as killing civilians, torturing prisoners, or using banned weapons. These acts violate international law.
- Legislation: The process of making laws and the laws passed by a government or parliament.
- Legal Age: The age at which a person is legally allowed to do certain activities. It depends on the country and activity (e.g., voting, driving).
- Lawsuit: A legal case where a person or company brings a claim to court seeking justice or compensation.
Concept Application
- Category: Rule of Law
Why? Arresting a journalist despite constitutional free speech breaks the equal and fair application of the law. - Category: Criminality
Why? Assault is a crime because it involves physically harming another person. - Category: War Criminal
Why? Ordering attacks on civilians during war violates international humanitarian law. - Category: Legislation
Why? Parliament passing a new law is the process of making legislation. - Category: Lawsuit
Why? A person suing a company in court for injury is filing a lawsuit.
Comparing Opinions and Judgments
- Difference: A biased opinion is influenced by personal feelings or interests, while a moral judgment is based on beliefs about right and wrong.
- Examples:
- Biased opinion: A company claims pollution laws are unnecessary because they hurt profits.
- Moral judgment: Saying slavery is wrong because it violates human dignity.
Case-Based Categorization
- a) Vested interest – The CEO opposes the law because it affects their business profits.
- b) Moral judgment – The activist argues based on what is ethically right.
- c) Rule of law – The official is punished equally under the law.
Advisor Scenario: International Justice
The country should bring the leader before an international court. As a war criminal, they violated universal human rights, such as the right to life and the protection of civilians.
Creative Strategy for Social Improvement
The government should pass legislation to improve education access. Strong rule of law ensures the program is enforced, and reducing criminality helps protect schools. This works because laws create long-term, fair solutions.