There is an ongoing debate about whether governments should implement more prolonged prison sentences to lessen crime rates. Some believe that severe punishments can intimidate potential offenders, rendering them to change their bad intentions. While others contend that triggering fears is not always the best solution as there are exceptional cases that neccessitate compassionate approaches.
It is reasonable that longer time sitting behind bars can discourage those who intent to commit crimes, thereby reducing the amount of criminal offends. Take Singapore as an illustration, this nation has imposed strict regulations, including heavy monetary fines and prison sentences, which significantly contribute to their nationwide minimal crime rates. However, from my perspective, it is flawed to solely adopt that solution as culprits’ morals are not always inherantly eroded. External factors should be considered to initiate other compassionate solutions for exceptional cases, such as poor people who resorted to guilt for the sake of their family’s survival, or young people from complicated background, who normalized cruel behaviors due to being instilled with distorted values from their familial upbringing.
Therefore, it is reasonable to lengthen the prison sentences, however, there are aspects to consider, especially punishments targeting special cases. Primarily, governments must ensure that the base salaries of all jobs are sufficient to meet basic needs of citizens. By this, no one is living in survival mode, then resorting to misdeed. Besides, for those who lack parental guidance or are negatively affected by bad influences, re-education camps can be better alternatives to jails, which create opportunities for these people to contribute meaningfully, compensating to their guilts, and later successfully rehabit to society.
In conclusion, while it is valid to enhance the punishments, particularly extending prison periods, to significantly alleviate crimes. It is imperative to opt for more compassionate approaches towards underpriviledged individuals.
