I never thought Light's actions could be justified. Not even the initial killing of criminals. I am opposed to the death penalty because life is too precious for a single human, or even a collaboration of humans to decide over it. However, I don't find Light's action extraordinary. The US bombing of Bagdhad, Chinas persecution of Falun-gong, Israles launching into Palistine, and Norways sale of cluster-missiles. Actions carried out in the name of good\God that kill and mutilate are carried out all around the world each day.
There is one thing though, one thing that separates Light from all the worlds "justifiers". And that is the fact that he is alone.
Someone mentioned Adolf Hitler as an example of evil carried out in the name of good. Now that image is a bit crooked. The fact that germany managed to unify itself, build an industry that was one of europes finest, create jobs for all, food for all, bring hope to people that felt only remorse and failure. Now that is great work, and this was Hitlers doing in the 8 years before the war. Now this may sound like Nazi sympathy, but far from it. What I am trying to say is that alongside Hitler was a group, no a clan of people. All genius, bright men who had waited for an opertunety to use their skills. Wich they did not get in the broken-down germany that they grew up in. They where all guilty of the crimes committed. Rommel and Mengele, split decision killing of thousands. Just as governments that deal death penalty it is not a single mans doing. This is where Light differs from the "butcherers".
This is what makes him "God"...
"True persona justice may find,
community alas, is forever blind."
-hostghost