Crime is rampant in today’s day and age, and it is pertinent that the appropriate punishment is given when due. Some people believe that the best way to deliver this punishment is by serving time in prison, as it segregates criminals from the general society. I on the other hand, do not support this viewpoint, and I will tell you why.
Prison sentences are usually served to certain types of criminals, but it is not always the best solution/punishment to every crime commited, as it does not provide rehabilitation that is necessary to recalibrate a criminal’s mind. Prison sentences are usually not inclusive of positive rehabilitation practices like learning life skills, serving the community, and giving back to others. These practices can help the criminal see the error of their ways, rather than being confined with other criminals for a long time.
Also, certain crimes to not require prison sentence e.g. crimes against traffic laws, these may require a less stringent and different kind of punishment e.g. paying a fine, which is often times enough to deter people from committing such crimes. In contrast, certain crimes require more than a prison sentence can provide, e.g. some states in America and in the UAE may declare capital punishment (death sentence), as the payment for certain heinous crimes. Although the idea of “an eye for an eye” seems barbaric, it brings and satisfies the justice system in those parts of the world.
I do agree that serving time behind bars, may be necessary to protect the general public from particularly dangerous criminals, while also allowing prisoners time to feel the consequences of whatever crime they committed but, ultimately, it is not the best punishment for all crimes.
In conclusion, I believe prison can be occasionally beneficial in keeping the society safe from dangerous criminals and rehabilitation but may not be the perfect punishment for every crime. Each crime should be treated and judged uniquely to the offender and the state affected.