03-08-2022, 12:49 PM
(03-07-2022, 09:35 AM)Crazyjdawg Wrote: I think a really unfortunate circumstance of our prison system is the implication that criminals deserve whatever happens to them in prison. As if being in a prison with no freedoms (and often being put to work for almost no money) for years at a time isn't punishment enough, they also have to worry about being raped or being beaten by other prisoners. Like that's "part of the sentence." It just perpetuates crime and increases recidivism. I feel like the purpose of prison has become completely lost over time...
Actually, America still uses prisons as they were originally intended, a place to both punish criminals and isolate them from the rest of society. The idea of rehabilitation is relatively new. Even so the idea has only really been paid lip service in the US and originally the prisoner themselves was supposed to reflect and repent for their wrongdoings, which is where the term penitentiary comes from. So, while I get your general point prison does not functionally operate on a less enlightened plane now then was originally intended.
Other countries definitely use different methods and styles of prison, but I would also point out that many, if not all, of the countries used in these comparisons have a criminal justice systems that would have Americans aghast in regard to the comparatively light sentences for serious crimes people receive in those countries. I don't think anyone has really hit the sweet spot on this topic, we're certainly to the right of center, especially for a western democracy, with the European countries being left of center.
As for the topic at hand, my personal opinion is that your prison is decided by your genitalia. It's the only fair policy for everyone involved.
