Justice is blind

Definition

True justice should be impartial and not influenced by personal characteristics, wealth, status, or other irrelevant factors.

Etymology

This concept comes from the Roman goddess Justitia, who was depicted wearing a blindfold to represent impartiality. The phrase entered English legal terminology in the 16th century and became a cornerstone principle of Western legal systems, symbolizing that justice should be based solely on facts and law.

Kelly Says

The blindfold metaphor is brilliantly paradoxical - by not seeing, justice sees more clearly, focusing only on what matters legally rather than being swayed by appearance, social status, or personal bias. This ideal remains aspirational rather than fully realized, making the phrase both a guiding principle and a critique of legal systems that fall short of true impartiality.

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