Full Idea
It is permissible to put a criminal to death because the law that punishes him was made to protect him. For example, a murderer has enjoyed the benefits of the law by which he is condemned.
Gist of Idea
The death penalty is permissible, because its victims enjoyed the protection of that law
Source
Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 15.02)
Book Reference
Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.202
A Reaction
Dubious! We could add torture, and life imprisonment for parking offences, if this argument is sufficient justification.