why do people kill people who kill people to show people that killing people is wrong?

[primroseburrows]

So, Saddam has been executed. Now I suppose the next thing I should hear is that all those people he killed are alive again, because isn't that why he was killed?

I can understand Iraq's feelings about this. I don't agree with revenge, but I understand it. I do NOT get America's elation. Somebody needs to 'splain, Lucy, because I just don't understand killing people for killing people. I don't honestly think I ever will, really. *sigh*

And, a twenty-year-old saying "I guess it's one less person in the world we have to deal with" makes me feel icky inside.

Comments

[peacey.livejournal.com]

Killing people for killing people goes to the "eye for an eye" mentality and that the same fate that one's victims suffer so should be suffered upon the perpetrator. The fact that all those he killed will not be brought back by his death isn't the point. The point is that, by comparison, in a very small way and for a very few moments, he felt their fear. Which, in my opinion, is far more significant than his actual death.

You must look beyond man-made borders and see his victims as members of the human family, as our brothers and sisters and perhaps you might understand why some people the world over feel a sense of elation or relief. When I see video of his torturings, I certainly don't see his victim's nationality, skin color, etc. I see a man or woman more similar to me than differen, one who feels and loves and wants to live and I want justice for them and for those who loved them - a justice that they set and that they feel appropriate and right.

Also, had he not been executed, many Iraqis believed he would come back to power when the coalition forces eventually leave and continue to terrorize them. They now know that they are truly free of this despot.

Generally, I don't advocate capital punishment. I am certainly not elated by Saddam's execution. For the Iraqi people and the families of his victims, I am relieved.

[primroseburrows.livejournal.com]

When I see video of his torturings, I certainly don't see his victim's nationality, skin color, etc. I see a man or woman more similar to me than different, one who feels and loves and wants to live and I want justice for them and for those who loved them - a justice that they set and that they feel appropriate and right.

I agree that the Iraqis should have justice. I disagree about what is considered justice, however.

Also, if a torturer is responsible for his terrible crimes (and I certainly believe he or she is), then what do we do about Guantanamo Bay? Or Abu Ghraib? We have blood on our hands, too.