5 ms·

it's definitely a base instinct. When I'm stressed and preoccupied, lashing out is certainly easier than when calm. I also wonder how people rationalize seekin

it's definitely a base instinct. When I'm stressed and preoccupied, lashing out is certainly easier than when calm. I also wonder how people rationalize seeking punishment. More often than not, no forced act can undo wrought damage, particularly emotional damage, and people don't really feel better seeing others suffer, even if that's what they believe they want. People also are extremely prone to forgetting the core intent of society's justice system and prisons, which is (or should be) reform, which is sad. Many balk at the idea that prison is humane in any dimension. We have a lot of growing to do :(

wizofaus 4y ago
I don't have an issue that the threat of prison is a useful deterrent, therefore it needs to obviously be a less desirable option than whatever lives people live now. But nor should it ever be inhumane. The big problem with prisons is that those put there consequently spend a significant period of their lives interacting with nobody but criminals (and prison guards, who aren't exactly known for their ability to inspire the best in others). I'd wager a significant number of career criminals only end up making those life choices after spending time inside. OTOH reform is genuinely hard and not often successful.
- dolni 4y ago
  Personally, I think prison ought to be structured a lot more like life outside prison. You teach people what they need to do to be successful outside, which has some obvious benefits. Provide for jobs, pay a reasonable market wage, a fair amount of paid time off and/or sick leave. Then teach them how to pay bills and prioritize. Charge reasonable rates for accommodations, food, and amenities. Let people upgrade their room for an increased monthly fee. Maybe they can pay for cable. If someone wants a steak on their birthday, they can splurge and get one -- but it will cost them more than their usual meal. Now you're probably asking: "but what if they refuse to work?" I say: the same thing that happens outside a prison. You don't work, you don't get paid. You don't get paid, you can't buy food. You can't buy food, you don't eat. The problem will solve itself after a while.

wizofaus 4y ago

I don't have an issue that the threat of prison is a useful deterrent, therefore it needs to obviously be a less desirable option than whatever lives people live now. But nor should it ever be inhumane. The big problem with prisons is that those put there consequently spend a significant period of their lives interacting with nobody but criminals (and prison guards, who aren't exactly known for their ability to inspire the best in others). I'd wager a significant number of career criminals only end up making those life choices after spending time inside. OTOH reform is genuinely hard and not often successful.

dolni 4y ago
Personally, I think prison ought to be structured a lot more like life outside prison. You teach people what they need to do to be successful outside, which has some obvious benefits. Provide for jobs, pay a reasonable market wage, a fair amount of paid time off and/or sick leave. Then teach them how to pay bills and prioritize. Charge reasonable rates for accommodations, food, and amenities. Let people upgrade their room for an increased monthly fee. Maybe they can pay for cable. If someone wants a steak on their birthday, they can splurge and get one -- but it will cost them more than their usual meal. Now you're probably asking: "but what if they refuse to work?" I say: the same thing that happens outside a prison. You don't work, you don't get paid. You don't get paid, you can't buy food. You can't buy food, you don't eat. The problem will solve itself after a while.