The perception of the general public is that the criminal justice system is far too lenient. What does the research evidence suggest about the use of harsher penalties as a method of deterrence?

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Research has shown that harsher penalties do not necessarily lead to decreased crime rates. Other factors such as the likelihood of being caught, the severity and swiftness of punishment, and the individual's personal circumstances are also seen to play a significant role in deterrence. Additionally, research has also suggested that overly harsh sentences can lead to increased recidivism rates and other negative outcomes. Therefore, while harsh penalties may have some deterrent effect, they are not a silver bullet solution and should be implemented with caution.

The Perception of the General Public Is That the Criminal