Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

> They're still a danger to society

Which is one of the reasons why we have incarceration, which I believe is absolutely necessary in some form in a case where a person is a danger to others (whether or not it's "their fault").

> we'd have to make excuses for peadophiles having 'messed up impulse control' too.

It's not an excuse, it's more a description of reality. And it would apply to child abusers as well, as well as other criminals, yes.

This isn't an argument against "punishing" these people. It's an argument for being clear about why we are "punishing" them, to make sure it's not a revenge motive (which is a heavily biologically driven motive in itself)




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: