Draconian politics - or indeed the term "draconian" - is present in modern political parlance. It is used to negatively describe legislation, or indeed any action of a government.
What is draconian politics, and what does it mean?
Before Draco's time, Athens had been governed either by blood feuds (vendettas or retaliatory violence) or by oral laws. There was no actual legislature in place.
Draco introduced written legislature which could be upheld by the state.
The laws that he introduced were extremely harsh on the citizens of Athens, as almost any offence could carry the death penalty. He also banned a multitude of personal freedoms.
That is why any bill that curtails the freedom and liberty of the individual can be described as "draconian".
What is draconian politics, and what does it mean?
- Draconian politics means: Any action or legislation by a government which curtails, or threatens to curtail freedom and liberty, or any legislation or action which seems overly harsh or oppressive.
Before Draco's time, Athens had been governed either by blood feuds (vendettas or retaliatory violence) or by oral laws. There was no actual legislature in place.
Draco introduced written legislature which could be upheld by the state.
The laws that he introduced were extremely harsh on the citizens of Athens, as almost any offence could carry the death penalty. He also banned a multitude of personal freedoms.
That is why any bill that curtails the freedom and liberty of the individual can be described as "draconian".
