There are as many different types of criminals as there are crimes. Every criminal act does some kind of harm, but how do you decide which one is worse than another? For example, is shooting someone more or less depraved than stabbing and beating them to death? You likely have an immediate response to this question, but your challenge this week is to think about why you respond that way.
Evaluating the severity of crimes raises so many questions (e.g., “Does intent matter?”). For example, should someone who commits a crime for another be held to a different standard than someone who willingly commits the crime for themself? Does it matter who is victimized? For example, should crimes against women or children be considered more severe? Do you believe that the punishment should fit the crime? You probably do, but on what criteria can this be fairly and consistently decided?
For this Discussion, you will examine criminal behavior in terms of depravity. Consider the Depravity Standard, and be prepared to discuss your thoughts on the seriousness of crimes.
In what ways has crime evolved over time?
Should sentencing of offenders be based on the relative depravity of their crime? Explain your rationale.
What are potential problems in collecting and/or incorporating depravity findings in sentencing laws?
Note: Your post should be substantial (1 paragraph or more for each bullet point above), supported with scholarly evidence from your research and/or the Learning Resources, and properly cited using APA style.
