Answer:
I wonder if you could disagree. Say the punishment of wearing the scarlet letter is much less barbaric than the stoning that she might have suffered under mosaic law.
Explanation: Adultery destroys the love and trust that form the basis for a happy marriage. It causes the breakdown of families. In previous centuries, stable marriages and families were the basis for communities and civil society. Anyone who caused disruption undermined the common good. The punishment served as a deterrent.
In today's culture of pleasure-seeking and lack of commitment to long-term marriage, it may seem harsh to punish someone for "doing what comes naturally." But look at the consequences. Single parents who can hardly support themselves and their kids. Kids constantly in visitation switches between parents. Unplanned pregnancies and abortions. If adultry were less tolerated, family and community life would be more stable.
