In an effort to still punish criminals, I propose that the government put them to work. We could use convicts more than just routine trash pick-ups. They could learn to do the grueling tasks that most Americans don't want to do and by that, not only think about their consequences and be punished for them, but also benefit society. And what better thing to a convicted criminal to do than give back to society? A society that they harmed with their actions. This would also boost the economy with free labor. Although some might say this is like slavery, it's not. Right now, most of these criminals are sitting in prison, living off tax payer's money. And while it might not be enjoyable, it is by no means harsh. This gives them the chance to reform and hopefully, if they are to be released, to become hard working individuals that will help our society.
One of the largest problems facing America today is the devaluation of human life. It is becoming a huge threat to our society and if we continue to allow this apathy towards life to occur, who can be assured that in the coming century we will still be the greatest nation on earth?
This blog post is an official entry for the Law Blogger’s Scholarship, sponsored by The Law Office of Joshua Pond, http://www.joshuapondlaw.com.