what contemporary issues could i write about that relate to Thomas More's statement "I give the devil benefit of the law for my own safety's sake."
also could someone explain more what this statment means?
THANKS!
More meant that citizens rights could be abridged, if the govenment felt it was making the citizens safer.
An example of that was the actions of the US govenment following 9/11. The 1st and 2nd amendments were "ignored" or "abridged" when without court permission mail and phone calls of American citizens were monitored . People have been held in prison without due process of law.
To explore contemporary issues that relate to Thomas More's statement, "I give the devil benefit of the law for my own safety's sake," you could consider discussing topics such as:
1. Criminal justice reform: This could involve examining the balance between protecting individual rights and ensuring public safety. More's statement suggests that even the worst individuals should have legal protections, raising questions about the purpose and effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
2. Civil liberties and human rights: Discuss how laws and legal protections apply to various groups and individuals, particularly in cases where there may be a conflict between personal freedoms and collective safety. More's statement emphasizes the importance of giving everyone the benefit of the law, regardless of their actions or character.
3. Government surveillance and privacy: This topic explores the tension between maintaining security and protecting individual privacy. More's statement alludes to the concept that even those considered 'devils' deserve lawful treatment, which can be connected to debates surrounding government surveillance practices and the balance between security and privacy.
In terms of understanding More's statement itself, "I give the devil benefit of the law for my own safety's sake," it implies that even individuals perceived as evil should be granted the protection and rights afforded by the legal system. This principle comes from More's belief in the importance of upholding justice and fairness, even in the face of perceived threats to personal safety. By adhering to the law and protecting the rights of all, including the worst individuals, one ensures their own safety and reinforces the integrity of the legal framework.