Reflection on the Criminal Justice System
Currently, the criminal justice system, since the late 1970s, has emphasized Punishment rather than Rehabilitation. Remember, resources are limited, so the system must use most of its resources for either Punishment or Rehabilitation.
Jean Valjean believes circumstances other than simply the crime itself must be taken into consideration when sentencing, whereas Javert believes the law will become meaningless if it is subject to emotions and special circumstances when sentencing. Which position do you most agree with and why?