Extralegal: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'extralegal' comes from Latin roots, with 'extra' meaning 'beyond' and 'legal' referring to 'law'.
• It first appeared in English legal discussions in the early 19th century, highlighting actions or decisions not bound by law.
• The word reflects a growing interest in the limits of legal authority and individual rights during times of political upheaval.

Historical Context

• Throughout history, various groups have operated extralegally, particularly during revolutions when formal law structures collapse.
• In the Wild West of America, extralegal actions were common, including vigilante justice when local law enforcement was absent or ineffective.
• The concept is significant in discussions of state power, as it raises questions about the legality of government actions that bypass established legal frameworks.

Pop Culture

• Movies often portray extralegal heroes, such as vigilantes who enforce their own sense of justice while rejecting the corrupt legal system.
• Television shows frequently explore themes of extralegal operations, highlighting the moral dilemmas of characters who choose to operate outside the law for a 'greater good.'
• Books about anti-heroes frequently feature protagonists who engage in extralegal activities, blurring the lines between right and wrong.

Politics

• Extralegal actions can be seen in times of political turmoil, where laws may be ignored or reinterpreted to serve powerful interests.
• International relations may involve extralegal approaches, such as secret operations by governments that fall outside the jurisdiction of typical legal systems.
• Controversial policies, like the use of drones for targeted killings, can raise debates about their extralegal status and implications for human rights.

Philosophy

• Philosophers have long debated the morality of extralegal actions, often questioning the balance between law and justice.
• Many argue that when legal systems fail, extralegal approaches can become necessary, raising ethical concerns and legitimacy issues.
• The tension between law and personal morality is a central theme in philosophical discussions about police power and civil disobedience.

This word's position of #33,544 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33541 parterre
• 33542 coddling
• 33543 printable
• 33544 extralegal
• 33545 pronghorn
• 33546 ordinariness
• 33547 frazzled
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