Key learning points

1. There are a variety of reasons why societies have laws.
2. Social scientists look at the laws of a society to see the values and normal behaviour in that society.
3. Augustine argued that 'an unjust law is no law at all'.
4. There are examples of people who have fought against unjust laws.
5. Religious ideas can support following laws, as well as fighting against unjust laws.

Keywords

• Discrimination - the unfair treatment of a people and groups based on a part of their identity such as sex, race or religion

• Justice - the idea that everyone should get fair reward or punishment for their actions

• Law - a rule, usually made by a government, that is used to order the way in which a society behaves

• Pacifist - a person who believes in resolving conflicts without violence and opposes war or the use of force

• Unjust - when something is unfair or treats people unequally

Common misconception