Description
Book Synopsis: Analyzing the law of the talion—an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth—literally, William Ian Miller presents an original meditation on the concept of "pay back". Miller's unique theory of justice offers redemption via retaliation. It espouses the view that revenge is a highly structured phenomenon that requires a deep commitment to balance in order to get even in a strict but fair manner. As a result, we find that much of what is assumed to be justice, honor and respect is just a way of providing a means of balancing or measuring valuations. Moreover, according to its biblical roots, the law of the talion implies that the value of an eye can only be matched with another eye, suggesting that body parts are to be considered units of valuation. Pursuing this further, the talion seems to require such parts as a preferred means of payment. Thus body parts have a justified claim not only as money, but as the most valued type of payment as well—by uniquely fulfilling the most demanding (and thus most honorable) means of compensation. Applying this concept to the real world, Miller argues that Shylock's pound of flesh wager can be justified circumstantially in The Merchant of Venice and that blood oaths effectively ensure the most lasting bonds of trust over time. He also analyzes other societies and cultures, comparing the ancient and seemingly more primitive with their modern counterparts, by gauging the role of the talion, as a means of maintaining honor within them. Sadly, the ancient and more primitive seem to have functioned more righteously, for the most part, because the execution of violent retaliation was tightly controlled by the talion and accordingly limited its excesses.
William Ian Miller is the Thomas G. Long Professor of Law at the University of Michigan Law School. He has also taught at Harvard, Yale, Chicago, and the Universities of Bergen and of Tel Aviv. The recipient of a J.D. and a Ph.D. in English, both from Yale, Professor Miller has written other books including Faking It CUP (2003), The Mystery of Courage (2000) and The Anatomy of Disgust (1967).
Details
Are you intrigued by the concept of "pay back"? Dive into the thought-provoking world of justice and revenge with Eye for an Eye by William Ian Miller. This unique and captivating book takes you on a journey to explore the law of the talion - an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. Miller's compelling theory of justice challenges conventional notions and offers a fresh perspective on redemption through retaliation. Uncover the fascinating idea that revenge is a structured phenomenon, requiring a delicate balance for strict yet fair retribution.
As you delve deeper into the pages, you'll discover how the concept of the talion extends beyond the mere exchange of body parts as a form of payment. Miller explores the biblical roots of this law and sheds light on the intriguing notion that body parts can be considered units of valuation. In this thought-provoking exploration, we learn that body parts not only hold value as a unique form of currency but also symbolize the most honorable means of compensation. Prepare to challenge your preconceptions and open your mind to a whole new understanding of justice, honor, and respect.
Eye for an Eye doesn't stop at theory - it delves into the real world to analyze its application. Miller provides a thought-provoking analysis of various societies and cultures, drawing comparisons between ancient and modern practices. By examining the role of the talion in maintaining honor within these societies, we are forced to confront the uncomfortable truth that, in many cases, ancient and seemingly more primitive societies upheld justice more righteously. The talion acted as a stringent regulator, preventing the excesses of violent retaliation and ensuring a balanced approach to justice.
Join William Ian Miller, the renowned Thomas G. Long Professor of Law at the University of Michigan Law School, on this captivating journey into the world of justice, revenge, and the law of the talion. With his extensive expertise and knowledge, Miller expertly weaves together historical analysis, cultural observations, and thought-provoking insights. Eye for an Eye offers a truly unique perspective, challenging your beliefs and leaving you with a deeper understanding of the complex nature of justice. Don't miss out on this captivating masterpiece - order your copy now and embark on a mind-expanding journey.
Click here to order Eye for an Eye and explore the power of retaliation and justice in a way you've never experienced before.
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