Evenhanded justice is spelled /ˌiː.vənˈhændɪd ˈdʒʌs.tɪs/. The word evenhanded is made up of two syllables – even and handed. The stress is on the first syllable, pronounced as "EE-vuhn". It means fair and unbiased. Justice is pronounced as "JUHs-tis," with the stress on the first syllable. It refers to the principle of moral righteousness and fairness in the administration of the law. Together, evenhanded justice means unbiased and fair treatment under the law.
Evenhanded justice refers to the fair and impartial treatment of individuals or groups in legal proceedings or decision-making processes. It is a concept rooted in the principles of equality, fairness, and the absence of bias or favoritism.
In the context of the judicial system, evenhanded justice emphasizes the equal distribution of rights, opportunities, and consequences to all parties involved, irrespective of their personal characteristics, background, or social status. It ensures that everyone is subject to the same laws and regulations, and that judgments are made solely based on the merits of the case and the available evidence.
Evenhanded justice requires judges, juries, and other decision-makers to approach each case with an unbiased mindset, carefully evaluate the facts presented, and apply the law in a consistent and equitable manner. It demands that decisions are not influenced by personal prejudices, external pressures, or discriminatory practices.
The concept of evenhanded justice is essential for maintaining societal trust and promoting a sense of fairness and legitimacy. It upholds the principles of due process and the rule of law, preventing arbitrary or unjust outcomes. By striving for evenhanded justice, societies aim to create a system that treats all individuals equally before the law, fostering a just and inclusive society where everyone has confidence in the legal system's ability to deliver impartial justice.
The word "evenhanded" originated from the combination of two words: "even" and "handed".
The term "even" can be traced back to the Old English word "efne", which meant "level" or "equal". It later evolved into Middle English as "even(e)", retaining the same meaning. Over time, it came to signify fairness, equality, or balance.
The word "handed" refers to the human hand. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "hand", which had the same meaning. The term evolved into Middle English as "hande" and eventually became the modern English word "hand".
When these two words are combined, "evenhanded" conveys the idea of being fair, impartial, or just. It describes a person or a system that treats everyone equally, without favoritism or bias.
The word "justice" has its roots in Latin.