| Jay520 said: I think most people 'feel' sorry for criminals. But even if they didn't, having a mere feeling won't change anything so I don't see your point in it. What actions do you suggest we take? Don't punish criminals? |
The question about what action to take is a very complex issue. In a perfect universe, I would suggest that we try to rehabilitate them using any method but punishment until it's the only way out.
Being in prison may serve several purposes: 1) They won't be able to hurt anyone outside of prison 2) while in prison they may receive treatment and 3) it may be considered a punishment, depending on who you are asking. While those three combined may only stop 40% from going back to jail ever again (according to Swedish numbers), it is still the most effective form of treatment that we have. So, in a sense I do support this kind of punishment + treatment strategy, but only because there is no more effective way for that price.
That is not the main point of this thread though. The main point is that we shouldn't hate our criminals and that punishing unfortunate people theoretically makes no sense. The electric chair would be most severe example of unjustified punishments.
