Punishment and Retribution

July 29, 2023

Can a monetary fine constitute sufficient punishment?

Yes, in many cases a fine constitutes a sufficient punishment. In other cases, a fine may not be enough especially if the situation has been carried out often and has escalated to other things.

 

Should the amount of a fine be based on a defendant's wealth?

In some cases, yes, but the nature of the crime should also be considered. For instance, in situations where a wealthy defendant commits a serious offense, a higher fine may be warranted due to their financial means. However, the fine amount should not solely be determined by the defendant's wealth. Factors such as the severity of the crime, its impact on the victim, and the defendant's awareness of their actions should also be taken into account. For example, if a trained martial artist commits assault, their fine and sentence should reflect the gravity of the crime and their knowledge of the harm caused, rather than solely being influenced by their wealth.

 

What do you think about this system of punishment?

In the described system of punishment, where a man was sentenced to death for disrespecting the rules set forth by a captain, I believe it appears to be extreme and disproportionate. A simple warning could have sufficed to address the offense. Furthermore, the use of torture as a form of punishment is excessive and inhumane, and I do not believe it is needed. Modern legal systems aim to prioritize fairness, proportionality, and respect for human rights in their approach to punishment.

 

How does it compare to what we know?

Today's approach to punishment is significantly more lenient than the described system. Many states have abolished the death penalty, and torture is widely condemned, even in dealing with captured terrorists. We have learned from history that extreme measures can lead to abuse and application to lesser crimes in the future. Prioritizing fairness, respect for human rights, and rehabilitation is the focus of modern legal systems, aiming to create a more humane and just society.

 

What thoughts or justifications for retribution do you agree with?

It depends on the crime. For small things such as accidents where no life-threatening situations happened, an apology is enough. For example, one time I was in a car with my friend; they were driving, and we were hit from behind by a passing car. The car had very little damage, and we had no injuries, neither did the other driver. Police were not called; payment for the damage was made by the other driver, who accepted blame, and we ended it there. The apology was enough, and the payment for the vehicle was very sufficient, so there was no need for further action.

 

What do you disagree with? Why?

I agree with the concept of punishment for individuals who commit crimes, but I cannot support the use of the death penalty unless the crime is of an extreme nature, such as murder. While murder may warrant the death penalty in certain circumstances, it should not be a frequently used form of punishment.

Regarding torture, some may argue that it is suitable for terrorists, but can we truly guarantee that it will only be reserved for such extreme cases? There is a valid concern that its use could extend to lesser crimes if we allow it in any context. Thus, I find the idea of using torture as a form of punishment troubling and fraught with ethical dilemmas.

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