Single Idea 1381

[catalogued under 16. Persons / A. Concept of a Person / 2. Persons as Responsible]

Full Idea

Human laws do not punish the mad man for the sober man's actions, nor the sober man for what the mad man did, thereby making them two persons.

Gist of Idea

Someone mad then sane is two persons, judging by our laws and punishments

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 2.27.20)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.342


A Reaction

This may be a misinterpretation by Locke; the punishments may be based on the likelihood of the behaviour recurring, rather than on whether it is the same person. I may judge the madman as guilty of the sane action, but think punishment is pointless.