If you were in charge of starting a country, what would be the first thing you would do?
Most likely, you would want to set up a set of rules. Rules that would be liberal enough to permit citizens to operate freely yet protect people’s rights and property.
We call these rules…laws.
To make the rules work, there must be penalties attached to rules when violated.
You might note the first words of America’s constitution is “We the people of the United States in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice…”
Justice speaks to righteousness, fairness and impartiality.
The enforcement of justice ensures the safety of citizens and retribution to violators.
When you visit foreign countries one thing you consider before you visit is the safety factor.
Is the country safe? That is, are the chances of traveling to points of interest safe, without risking being mugged, robbed or abused.
Christopher Blin wrote an insightful book, “Swimming to Angola” detailing his travels to 80 third world countries over a 20-year period.
It was evident immediately how the enforcement of rules in the country determined the behavior of residents.
Many countries were run by dictators. Corruption, graft, scams and payoffs were prevalent in these countries. The “rules” favored those in power, especially the military, police or militia.
Countries with thoughtful rules that were enforced…were flourishing.
It doesn’t take a nuclear scientist to determine the value of law. However, laws can change.
Last week, we discussed the repeal of law in California. Voters were duped into voting for Prop 47 with the misleading title of “Safe Schools and Neighborhoods Act.” In truth, it was not a “safe” anything. In fact, it has done the opposite.
When a person commits a break in, shoplifts or vandalizes property there is no incarceration if the crime is less than $950. They only get a “ticket” if they are caught. Our police are busier than ever with an abundance of “crimes” that no longer have penalties!
This lenient and liberal application of law is a limp-lipped endorsement of justice. Petty crime in California is up 50% since 2014, after Prop. 47 was passed.
Well duh…!
Without justice, you have no law. And that is what you have.
The Police Chiefs Association of California voted against this law knowing it would rip the fragile fabric of enforcement from our foundation.
Contact your Sacramento representative and demand the repeal of Prop 47.
You cannot have a society of law and order if there is no longer law that establishes order.
Thank you for bringing this to everyones attention Miles.
Enlightenment is key to good government
People make mistakes and jail is not always the answer. Locking up people for petty crimes is not the answer. STOP TRYING TO PUT EVERYONE IN JAIL. JAIL IS FOR THE REAL HARD CRIMES, NOT PETTY ONES