The issue of whether to have fixed
punishment
or individualized
punishment
has been a topic of debate for many years. Some people subscribe to the notion that there should be a fixed
punishment
for each type of
crime
,
while
others advocate for individualized
punishment
based on the
circumstances
of the
crime
and the motivation for committing it. I uphold the view that individualized
punishment
is necessary in order to address the area of concern and serve as a deterrent for future crimes.
Those who argue for fixed
punishment
believe that it provides a clear and consistent standard for justice. When someone embarks on criminal activity, they know exactly what the consequences will be if they are caught.
This
takes the initiative away from potential criminals who might
otherwise
set out to commit a
crime
by dint of the uncertainty of the consequences.
In addition
, fixed
punishment
exerts influence on judges and law enforcement officials to ensure that they shoulder the responsibility of enforcing the law.
However
, there are
also
several drawbacks to fixed
punishment
. One is that it takes for granted the idea that all crimes are equal and should be punished in the same way.
This
ignores the fact that the motivation for committing a
crime
can vary widely from case to case.
For example
, someone who steals food to make ends meet should not be punished in the same way as someone who steals for personal gain.
Additionally
, fixed
punishment
can lead to indifference to the plight of individual offenders, who may be unfairly punished
due to
their
circumstances
.
On the other hand
, individualized
punishment
takes into account the specific
circumstances
of each
crime
and
offender
.
This
allows judges to play up mitigating factors and play down aggravating factors when deciding on a sentence.
For example
, a first-time
offender
who has committed a minor
crime
may receive a lighter sentence than a repeat
offender
who has committed a more serious
crime
. Individualized
punishment
also
allows offenders to reap the benefit of rehabilitation programs and other forms of support that can help them turn their lives around.
While
there are certainly challenges associated with implementing individualized
punishment
,
such
as the difficulty of determining the appropriate
punishment
for each
crime
, I believe that it is a more appropriate and effective approach than fixed
punishment
.
This
is because individualized
punishment
serves as a deterrent for future crimes, and it takes into account the unique
circumstances
of each case and
offender
, leading to more just outcomes.
In conclusion,
while
fixed
punishment
may seem like a straightforward solution to
crime
, it is not always the most effective or fair approach. Individualized
punishment
is prevalent in many justice systems around the world and receives wide currency
due to
its effectiveness.
While
there are challenges associated with it, I believe that it is a more appropriate and effective approach than fixed
punishment
, which is rife with the potential for unfairness and injustice.