Maxim 7.8.7
No one suffers punishment for his thoughts.
Cogitationis poenam nemo patitur.
Source: Dig. 48, 19, 18; Broom, Max. 279; Weisman, 92i
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
The law punishes acts, not ideas — a man's innermost thoughts, however wicked, are beyond the reach of earthly tribunals until they manifest in conduct.
Where this applies
- Can I be arrested for thinking about committing a crime?
- The government is monitoring my thoughts and beliefs — can they punish me for what I think?
Topics
Legal domains
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 7.8.7 — No one suffers punishment for his thoughts. — Dig. 48, 19, 18; Broom, Max. 279; Weisman, 92i (Cogitationis poenam nemo patitur.)
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