Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
What is the purpose of prisons?
Position1 of 4

The purpose of prison is retribution

This position holds that the purpose of prison is retribution. It argues incarceration should be an unpleasant experience that makes offenders pay for the harm they have caused, delivering justice to victims by ensuring wrongdoing meets a fitting penalty.

Supporting arguments · 1

  1. Prison means justice for victims
    Criminal activity violates the social contract and harms one or more victims. We must hold people accountable for these actions.