. Martin Luther King Jr. defines just laws as those that are in line with moral principles, while unjust laws go against moral norms. He makes a point of saying that while unjust laws degrade human dignity, good laws elevate it.
Yes, it’s important to understand the differences between just and unjust laws. It has a major effect on how we think of and behave in the world. Knowing what’s just helps us as people in determining what is right and wrong. We may, for example, challenge laws that are unjust or repressive, and being aware of this difference can have an important effect on society. It can support us in our conflict for justice and equality, ensuring that everyone is treated equally. Not to mention, it’s huge in politics. It influences our voting choices and the issues we care about. Understanding just and unjust laws has a significant impact on our lives and the way our society as a whole works.
Voter ID laws are an example of an unfair regulation that negatively impacts marginalized communities in the United States today, limiting their ability to exercise their right to vote and maintaining social inequalities. On the other hand, the Fair Housing Act, which forbids discrimination in housing based on many grounds, supports equal access to housing, and supports the values of justice and equality, is an example of a just law. These examples show how laws affect social justice and human dignity and represent MLK’s views on just and unjust laws.