Commensurate Desert
Von Hirsch is one of the major contributors to modern retributive theory. Distinct from Kant's "eye for an eye," Von Hirsch asserts that crimes should be punished proportionately to the seriousness of the crime committed; this having priority over the utilitarian concerns about crime prevention. For example, theft should be punished more severely than speeding because it is morally more reprehensible; this would be true even if studies proved we might save more lives by punishing speeding more severely than theft.
Read more about this topic: Andrew Von Hirsch
Famous quotes containing the words commensurate and/or desert:
“We do not concern ourselves about being esteemed in towns through which we pass. But if we are to remain a while there, we are so concerned. How long is necessary? A time commensurate with our vain and paltry life.”
—Blaise Pascal (1623–1662)
“In time the scouring of wind and rain will wear down the ranges and plane off the region until it has the drab monotony of the older deserts. In the meantime—a two-million-year meantime—travelers may enjoy the cruel beauties of a desert in its youth,....”
—For the State of California, U.S. public relief program (1935-1943)