re: #228 Cato the Elder

Not to deny that religious culture played a role in this, but from a legal standpoint it is irrelevant. Or ought to be.

One could argue that hot-blooded Mediterranean types are more likely to beat their errant wives to death, while Muslims prefer the head-chop.

In the eyes of the law, it makes no difference. Murder is murder.

I’m philosophically opposed to “hate crime” legislation. If I kill someone because they cut me off in traffic, the result is the same as if I killed that person because they looked funny to me.

So I’m also opposed to the law taking note of cultural motivations for murder. Murder should be punished regardless of motivation.

If we establish higher penalties for certain types of motivation, where does it lead us? Trying to enforce “culturally acceptable” behavior by law will not work.

As for the public, it will take note of these things. Of course they’re connected.

But not in the eyes of the law.

I completely agree with your point, but did anyone suggest that there should be legal differences?

It’s just silly to make the assertion that this isn’t culturally or religiously motivated.