Patrick Devlin

Patrick Devlin (1905–1992) was a British judge, lawyer, and legal philosopher known for his influential views on law and morality. He argued that the law should enforce societal morals, asserting that a society must protect itself from behaviors that threaten its moral fabric. Devlin is best known for his defense of legal moralism, stating that the law should reflect the common moral standards of the community. His ideas sparked significant debate, especially regarding issues like homosexuality and censorship, highlighting the tension between individual freedoms and societal norms. His work remains relevant in discussions of law, ethics, and public morality.