Here are several specific examples of how the Code of Hammurabi attempted to be fair:
- The code set a standard of fairness by stating that "If a gentleman has accused another gentleman of a crime and has not proved it, the accuser shall be put to death." This ensured that people would not be falsely accused of crimes.
- The code also allowed for people to defend themselves in court. If someone was accused of a crime, they had the right to present evidence and to cross-examine the accuser.
- The code also set limits on the punishment that could be imposed for crimes. For example, the maximum punishment for theft was to have one's hand cut off.
- Finally, the code protected the rights of slaves and women. For example, the code stated that a slave could not be killed for a crime committed by their owner.
Overall, the Code of Hammurabi was an important step in the development of a fair and just legal system. By establishing a set of laws that applied equally to all citizens, the code helped to protect the rights of all individuals and to promote social order.