Quote Originally Posted by CymekSniper View Post
In America there have always been punishments for crimes so I guess fear has less to do with the death penalty and more to do with punishment in general. If criminals are not afraid for their crimes then I guess that means we just need to put them away faster.[/b]
Trowing people in jail isn't always the answer. Often it is for cereal killers, but for a heroin addict that is so wired to get his fix he goes out stealing, either rehabilitation is better, or even just giving them heroin. They do that in some countries, it works wonders. Junkies don't have to steal, since you just can't change some junkies.

Also, if someone, lets say, breaks into a shop with some friends, being stupid adolescents, and gets thrown in jail, chances are he will just get more violent and criminal once he gets out. Proper rehabilitation often works, and in the long run, is cheaper.

It does make good television after all. [/b]
In the Netherlands we have a saying: "About taste, there can be no argument." Everyone likes different things "

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Also, moonbeam, I totally agree that they should stop putting drug users in prison (in America). It costs the state billions of dollars, and just ruins lives the kid's lives more then marijuana ever could. Since like 50% of America has smoked marijuana at one time, probably including the president, I don't see why they get that drug legal: It would even take care of the Real criminals, if done properly. The stoner kids aren't criminals, the dealers mostly are. Rich, criminal assholes. If you put one away, another one will take his place. Legalizing drugs, and letting the government grow proper save drugs to be strictly sold in special shops with proper I.D.-ing and even making sure there is a maximum to buy each day. That would put the drugs dealers out of business. If done with cocaine or XTC or something, overdoses would drop dramatically thanks to good information and drugs you actually know what is in it and how much.

Anyhow, way off topic there : )