Opinion Paper

Opinion Paper

Purpose

Throughout history there have been many ways of dealing with members of society that have disobeyed the laws. In earlier times, methods such as exiling criminals out of their land or direct forms of punishment such as hanging, burning, and mutilations were performed.

Introduction

A punishment is just if it recognizes the seriousness of the crime. "Let the punishment fit the crime" is a generally accepted and sound precept. In structuring criminal sentences, society must determine what punishment fits the premeditated taking of innocent human life. To be proportionate to the offence of cold-blooded murder, the penalty for such an offence must acknowledge the inviolability of human life. Without a death penalty, the criminal law's penalties will essentially "top out" and will not differentiate murder from other offences (Derosia 2008). Only if the sentencing structure allows for a substantially greater penalty for murder will the range of penalties fully reflect the seriousness of ending the life of an innocent human being.

Why are prisoners in prison anyway? Are convicts detained and imprisoned for their good or our safety? Is the current system of prison working well? Is the prison pleasant for the inmate, should it be pleasant for the inmate.

Life for a convicted criminal shouldn't be luxurious by any means, but they are still people and deserved to be forgiven if they truly want help. One on one counseling sessions with these criminals would be a good first step toward change. So many people feel like no one cares about them or wants to listen to their problems. A personal counselor would be perfect for helping the criminals deal with those emotions in an appropriate manner. The counselors could set up a time each day or week to be in the prison to listen and assist. These criminals are crying ...