No consensus exists on how the courts should punish the guilty, perhaps due to the fact that five different philosophical principles guide sentencing in the United States: retribution, incapacitation, deterrence, rehabilitation, and restoration. These sentencing philosophies differ in important ways. Some focus on past behavior, whereas others are future-oriented. Some stress that the punishment should fit the crime, whereas others emphasize that punishment should fit the criminal. These issues influence contemporary thinking about sentencing.

-The idea that the sentence of one offender should be a warning to others is inherent in what sentencing philosophy?

Question

-The idea that the sentence of one offender should be a warning to others is inherent in what sentencing philosophy?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The philosophy of deterrence aims to discourage potential offenders by making an example of the offender being sentenced. This involves using their sentence as a warning to others that the same punishment will be inflicted on anyone who commits a similar crime.

No Consensus Exists on How the Courts Should Punish the Guilty