Enlightenment Responses, Essay Example

Response 1

Enlightenment was a process implemented to detach the traditional way of relating issues to religion and instead consider such issues from a human or societal perspective. In my opinion, I strongly agree with enlightenment ideas since it was very unfair for individuals to be forced to abide by the rules and regulations of various religions without their consent. With enlightenment, individuals are allowed to make own decisions concerning religion and act in accordance with the requirements of the society. In this aspect, the law on crimes should focus on aspects that affect human beings and the society rather than religion law, since it is human beings and the society that are susceptible or bear effects of criminology as opposed to religion.

Considering Marx’s ideas on criminal behaviors, I highly support the fact that some criminal behaviors have got a legitimate place in our society. The society of today is full of imbalances in terms of resource allocation and the status. Some people can not even access or afford basic needs by use of legal or acceptable means. On the same note, others have more than what they need. For survival purposes, some people are tempted to get such basic needs through false means. The society should be able to protect such individuals. On the other hand, those people who steal in order to acquire a certain status which is society driven; should not be given any place in the society but instead face appropriate punishments.

Response 2

In this discussion, the whole idea is on the administration of justice and how various procedures were used to administer justice. In my own view, I tend to agree with some procedures and at the same time disagree with others. I strongly support the focus on truth as a condition to enhance justice. The truth is actually the light and surety that justice is being administered fairly without fear, favor or discrimination. To me, nothing compares to the truth. As much as truth should be part of the judicial system, the procedures for establishment of truth, as set by the Socratic system, should be highly emphasized. I also support the fact that the Romans emphasized on the need to balance government power and individual rights. This is important because it helps to protect citizens against exploitation or dictatorship by governing systems in place.

However, I also disagree with Marx’s sentiments of judging individuals as criminals based on where they live, their appearance or status. This is very unrealistic and against the judicial move of truth establishment and balancing government power with individual rights. I personally condemn such sentiments.