Commonwealth Policy Center

The Kentucky state legislature is considering several hundred bills. One bill sets higher penalties for sexual assaults while traveling in a taxi. Another bill creates stiffer penalties for those who assault referees. Yet another bill increases penalties for adults who communicate with children under 12 with sexual intent. The bills are meant to address problems that are based on real situations. We know that beating up referees and preying on children is wrong. While laws are necessary to stem evil, in order for society to become more ethical it requires each person to embrace a higher law. Lord Moulton said the test of ethical behavior is “obedience to the unenforceable.” In other words, each of us has a duty to practice self-discipline; to love our neighbor as ourselves, and practice the Golden Rule.