The Fine Line Between Justice & Vengeance

In the latest Commonweal, Prof. Mark Sargent of Villanova University Law School courageously offers "Vengeance Time," sure to be one of the more controversial articles of the year. While the article is not perfect--going a little far afield in drawing analogies--it does speak some truths which need to be said, like this one:

"It is not enough to say, however, that bishops, priests, and the church are finally getting what they deserve. The vengeance game is a dangerous one. When the original offense is terrible, we feel empowered to do terrible things in response. Blinded by our righteous rage and convinced of our moral superiority, we may do things we later regret."

It's an article that I hope people will not dismiss too readily, but rather take the time to read and reflect upon. You can read the whole thing here.