Lex Talionis

Definition

Lex Talionis, also known as the law of retaliation or "an eye for an eye," is a legal principle that states punishment should be equal to the harm inflicted. It means that if someone causes harm to another person, they should receive the same amount of harm in return.

Related terms

Hammurabi's Code: This ancient Babylonian law code was one of the earliest examples of written laws and included principles based on lex talionis.

Retributive Justice: This concept focuses on punishing offenders as a form of retribution rather than rehabilitation.

Eye for an Eye Principle: Another term used interchangeably with lex talionis, emphasizing equal retaliation for harm caused.