The Code of Hammurabi
The Code of Hammurabi is an ancient Babylonian code of law and is the oldest known set of laws that is, literally, set in stone. The code consists of 282 laws, with scaled punishments, adjusting "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" based on social status.
Likewise, the first known English code was written in the seventh century, and the proclamations of the code were called dooms. For example, theft was punishable by fines that varied widely in magnitude according to the status of the victim.
Keeping this in mind, respond to the following:
1. How do these ancient systems of law relate to the current justice system? Provide two examples from the current system that are rooted in these ancient laws.
2. What are the various types of punishment that were meted out to offenders? List at least two current 'adaptations' of ancient punishments.
3. Do you believe in 'general deterrence' or 'specific deterrence'? Why or why not?