Crime Laws

Essay by db1980University, Bachelor's March 2004

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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. In Canadian and American prisons, these methods have supposedly passed and more humane ways of punishing criminals have risen. The most popular sentences for criminals is prison. The main purpose of prisons can be argued. One can determine that the purpose of the prison system is to keep those who are a danger to the rest of society from causing any more danger. In placing a criminal in prison there are many effects that will occur. The process of imprisonment is a means of punishment. A prisoner is disallowed freedom and their life is basically controlled by the routine of the total institution. A total institution can be defined as all aspects of life (eating, recreation, etc.)

being conducted in the same place under the same authority. As prisons developed and more research was done, prisons became institutions of reform as well as punishment. Prisoners are given jobs to promote responsibility and a sense of independence. This approach is suppose to enable criminals to re-enter society as a "morally better person." There is also an indirect result that has often occurred during imprisonment. Prison is viewed as a violent environment that breeds a "better criminal." By only socializing with negative and deterrent attitudes the prisoner is not rehabilitated but gains criminal views of society. For this reason it is important to understand the significance of capital punishment. Some believe that serious offenders need to be rehabilitated. If they cannot be, some argue that the death penalty should be considered. The purpose and consequences of prison is...