Question

Kant endorsed the principle of lex talionis, which states that we should treat criminals as they treated their victims. What do you think is the strongest objection to such a view? Can this objection be overcome?

Answer 1

Answer: It is immoral to stoop to the level of a murderer and a potentially sociopathic murderer at that. It won't teach them a lesson, it's not like they will have a chance to ever again have the chance to lead a normal life in the outside world. The principle of lex talionis is just a cruel ending to a demented life.