Punishment Philosophy
Charline Hoyer
CJS 220
Axia University
October 16, 2011
Ann Meek
Punishment Philosophy
There are normally four punishment philosophies. They are deterrence, incapacitation, rehabilitation and retribution. Some believe that there is a fifth punishment philosophy and that is restoration. (Meyer & Grant, 2003). Each of the philosophies goal is to prevent crime, but they take different approaches.
Deterrence is to try to convince people not to commit crimes or violate laws. When a person decides not to do something like parking in a handicapped space because they will be fined for breaking the law, this is called deterrence. Officers can decide to ...view middle of the document...
When offenders are placed behind bars, they are not able to victimize other people in society. Prison protects society from criminals or offer treatment programs for offenders instead of sending them to prison depending on what the crime was. Incapacitation is not limited to prison or jail, it also includes house arrest, or in-patient treatment programs. (Meyer & Grant, 2003)
Retribution is believed or referred to as “just deserts” and is justified to as any penalty no matter how harsh. Retribution is based on the “an eye for an eye” concept. The retributive theory is punishing the offender by taking away their advantages that they might have gained from their criminal or illegal acts. Under this theory, criminals deserve to be punished for the wrongful acts they have committed. Many supported of the retribution theory argue that it is morally wrong to allow a guilty party to escape punishment. (Meyer & Grant, 2003) Retribution does not punish innocent parties or discipline those that cannot be held responsible for their actions. For example, people that have a mental illness cannot be punished since they are not aware that they are committing a crime. By punishing offenders, we restore balance in society instead of society seeking the desire for revenge. (Meyer & Grant, 2003)
Restoration is the offender makes restitution to the victim. Restoration has the offender making good on their crime that was committed. (Meyer & Grant, 2003). Restoration is almost...