The Question of Justification in Law Abiding Citizen

In the film Law Abiding Citizen, the question of whether the end justifies the means is central to its moral and ethical dilemmas. The protagonist Clyde Shelton seeks justice for the brutal murder of his family but his methods involve extreme violence and manipulation, targeting both the perpetrators and the legal system itself.

Clyde's Perspective

Clyde's Perspective: Clyde believes that the legal system has failed him and that taking justice into his own hands is the only way to achieve true accountability. His actions, while morally questionable, are driven by a desire for justice and revenge, suggesting that from his viewpoint, the end (justice for his family) justifies the means (murder and manipulation).

Ethical Implications

The film raises questions about the morality of vigilante justice. While Clyde's motivations are understandable, his methods lead to collateral damage and raise concerns about the rule of law. This creates a tension between legal justice and personal vengeance, challenging the audience to consider the ramifications of his actions.

The Legal System's Role

The Legal System's Role: The film critiques the legal system's shortcomings, illustrating how it can fail victims and allow guilty individuals to evade true punishment. This context complicates the question of justification, as it suggests that sometimes the system itself can be so flawed that extreme measures may seem justified to some.

Consequences

Consequences: Ultimately, Clyde's actions lead to unintended consequences and moral quandaries for both him and the characters pursuing him, particularly the district attorney Nick Rice. The film illustrates that while Clyde's end goal may be justified in his eyes, the means he employs lead to a cycle of violence and moral decay.

Conclusion and Reflection

In Law Abiding Citizen, the end does not fully justify the means. While Clyde's quest for justice is relatable, the film critiques the morality of his actions, suggesting that resorting to extreme measures undermines the very principles of justice he seeks to uphold. The narrative invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of justice, revenge, and morality in a flawed legal system.