Are prison sentences too lenient?
Prison sentences are generally too lenient.
- Strongly agree
- Somewhat agree
- Somewhat disagree
- Strongly disagree
What's at stake: The disagreement is over what deters most: heavier sentences, or the certainty that sentences handed down will be served.
The left's argument
Harsher sentences don't reduce crime: what matters is the certainty of being punished.
The centre's argument
Rather than lengthening sentences, make sure the ones handed down are served quickly.
The right's argument
Sentences that are too light or not served give offenders a sense of impunity.
And you, where do you stand?
Answer 30 situations like this one and find out where you stand, topic by topic.