Question

На уроках истории древнего мира в 5 классе ты узнал о законах вавильонского царя Хаммурапи.Даже за незначительное преступление по этим законам полагалось наказание-смерть.Как ты думаешь,можно ли назвать общество,где действует такие законы,гуманным?

Answer 1

В законах Хаммурапи ценность морального равенства осознаётся в сословно-классовой форме и в виде формальной справедливости. Основанием для справедливой оценки могла служить и служила интуитивно осознаваемая ценность морального равенства людей. 
Если кратко, то:
1. Законы были крайне жестокими
2. Несправедливы по отношению к рабам и низшим сословиям
3. Законы защищали богатых
4. За незначительные проступки следовало жесточайшее наказание
5. Законы защищали и давали привилегии свободным людям и рабовладельцам, в свою очередь, рабы считались за скот 

Answer 2

Hammurabi's Code and the Question of Humanity

Hammurabi's Code was a set of laws established by the Babylonian king Hammurabi around 1754 BCE. These laws were inscribed on a stele and contained provisions for various aspects of life, including criminal justice, property rights, and family law. One notable characteristic of Hammurabi's Code was its emphasis on strict punishments, including the death penalty, for certain offenses.

The question of whether a society can be considered humane when it enforces such severe punishments is subjective and open to interpretation. Different individuals and cultures may have varying perspectives on what constitutes a humane society. Some arguments in favor of Hammurabi's Code being considered humane include:

1. Deterrence: Supporters of strict punishments argue that the threat of severe consequences can deter individuals from committing crimes. By establishing a clear and harsh punishment for certain offenses, Hammurabi's Code may have aimed to discourage people from engaging in criminal behavior.

2. Consistency and predictability: Hammurabi's Code provided a set of laws that were applicable to all members of society, regardless of their social status. This uniformity and predictability in the legal system may have contributed to a sense of fairness and justice.

3. Protection of society: The severe punishments prescribed by Hammurabi's Code may have been intended to protect society from potential harm. By swiftly and harshly punishing offenders, the code aimed to maintain order and discourage criminal activities.

However, it is important to note that there are also arguments against considering a society with such laws as humane:

1. Proportionality: Critics argue that the severity of punishments in Hammurabi's Code may not have always been proportional to the crimes committed. The death penalty for relatively minor offenses could be seen as excessive and inhumane.

2. Lack of rehabilitation: Hammurabi's Code focused primarily on punishment rather than rehabilitation. Critics argue that a humane society should prioritize the reform and reintegration of offenders into society, rather than solely focusing on punishment.

3. Cultural and historical context: It is crucial to consider the cultural and historical context in which Hammurabi's Code was established. The code reflected the values and norms of ancient Babylonian society, which may differ significantly from contemporary notions of justice and human rights.

In conclusion, whether a society can be considered humane when it enforces laws with severe punishments, such as Hammurabi's Code, is a complex and subjective question. Different perspectives exist, and it is important to consider various factors, including deterrence, consistency, protection of society, proportionality, rehabilitation, and cultural context, when evaluating the humanity of such laws.