1. Explain the signifigance of the Twelve Tables and the Law of Nations to the development of political thought?

A: The significance of the Twelve Tables to the development of politcal thought was that they established the idea that all free citizens had a right to the protection of the law. The Law of Nations was also significant to the development of political thought as it set a law to deal with crimes and civil complaints involving foreigners or the relation of foreiners to Romans.

A: The significance of the Twelve Tables to the development of politcal thought was that they established the idea that all free citizens had a right to the protection of the law. The Law of Nations was also significant to the development of political thought as it set a law to deal with crimes and civil complaints involving foreigners or the relation of foreiners to Romans. Furthermore, the Law of Nations has provided a partial legal basis for modern conscription in the United States, and it has been said to have modernized the entire theory and practice of international law.

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Law_of_Nations

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A: The significance of the Twelve Tables to the development of politcal thought was that they established the idea that all free citizens had a right to the protection of the law. The Law of Nations was also significant to the development of political thought as it set a law to deal with crimes and civil complaints involving foreigners or the relation of foreiners to Romans. Furthermore, the Law of Nations have modernized the entire theory and practice of international law.

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To understand the significance of the Twelve Tables and the Law of Nations to the development of political thought, we need to delve into their historical context and their impact on legal systems.

1. The Twelve Tables:
The Twelve Tables were a set of laws inscribed on 12 bronze tablets in ancient Rome around 450 BCE. They formed the basis of Roman law and were significant in shaping political thought for several reasons:

a. Accessibility and Equality: The Twelve Tables were the first written laws in Roman history, making the legal system more accessible to all citizens. Prior to the establishment of the Twelve Tables, laws were often unwritten and known only to a select few. By putting the laws in writing, they became accessible to everyone, ensuring equality and reducing arbitrariness in legal proceedings.

b. Protection of Free Citizens: The Twelve Tables protected the rights of free citizens and introduced principles such as equality before the law and the right to a fair trial. They established that all Roman citizens had certain legal rights that the state was obligated to uphold. This notion of citizen rights had a profound impact on political thought and later influenced legal systems around the world.

c. Social Cohesion: The Twelve Tables were also instrumental in promoting social cohesion and stability within Roman society. They provided a common set of rules and regulations that governed both personal and public life. This helped to establish a sense of order, predictability, and trust among citizens, which were essential factors for a stable political system.

2. The Law of Nations:
The Law of Nations, also known as jus gentium in Latin, was a legal concept developed by ancient Roman jurists to deal with matters involving foreigners or the relations between foreign individuals and Roman citizens. It was an important development in the field of international law and had significant implications for political thought:

a. Governing Foreign Relations: The Law of Nations provided a framework for regulating interactions between different communities and cultures. It dealt with various aspects, such as commerce, diplomacy, and the treatment of foreigners. This recognition of the need for laws to govern international relations marked a significant step in political thought, as it highlighted the recognition of the existence of a broader political community beyond one's own state.

b. Equality and Universality: The concept of the Law of Nations also emphasized certain universal principles and values that should be applied to all individuals, regardless of their nationality. It acknowledged the inherent dignity and rights of all human beings, contributing to the development of a more inclusive and egalitarian political thought.

c. Influence on Modern Law: The principles and concepts of the Law of Nations have had a lasting impact on modern legal systems and international law. Today, many legal frameworks, such as human rights law and international treaties, draw upon the ideas and principles first established in the Law of Nations. This highlights the continuing relevance of this ancient legal concept in shaping political thought and contemporary legal systems.

In summary, the Twelve Tables and the Law of Nations were significant to the development of political thought because they laid the foundation for principles such as equality before the law, citizen rights, the regulation of international relations, and the universality of certain legal principles. Their influence can still be seen in modern legal systems, showcasing their enduring importance in shaping political thought.