Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?

I was reading my policy textbook for class, and I came across the word draconian several times, in reference to legislation and government. I was wondering if anyone would be able to explain, in layman's terms, exactly what this means? I've looked it up online, and I just don't get it. Can anyone break it down for me? Thanks!Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?It refers to Draco's Greek law code which had very severe punishments.Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?
Draconian tends to mean that something is excessively harsh and severe.Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?Draconian means harsh.Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?
In terms of legislation and policy? If a democrat or the media are calling something draconian it clearly means the measure is not enough of a "handout" to suit them. Or, it is something which requires personal responsibility rather than a bailout by some government agancy. In short, any measure (spending, welfare) a conservative might favor will be called draconian by a lib. When congress forced Clinton to sign the welfare reform act, left wing democrats and their friends in the media called the new legislation draconian, claiming people would starve, wind up on the street, resort to crime, etc. Naturally, it has worked exceptionally well. So well, in fact, Clinton has tried to take credit for its enactment.Can anyone tell me what this means, in terms of legislation and policy?Draco = Dragon.

Draconian = Dragonlike.



Very harsh, nasty, abuse of power.