Crime and Punishment

After reading our discussion on public shaming, I get the sense that the majority of you are opposed to this idea. However, something needs to be done to more effectively reduce crime in the United States. I hope we can all agree on that point. Jails are overflowing. Even upon release from jail, many former prisoners enter society and are soon back for committing another crime, usually of a worse nature. Seldom a month goes by when we don't hear of a serious and tragic crime committed. So, what is the solution? How can we reduce crime? If you don't think public shaming will work, what will?

Source: National Prime Prevention Council

Is it good to be a Loser?

Read the article "Losing is Good for You."
Do you agree with the author of the article that "nonstop recognition does not inspire children to succeed. Instead, it can cause them to underachieve."? Is too much recognition bad for students? Should we, as a society, focus more on accomplishments or participation/effort?  Use information from the article to support your argument.

Shame on You!

“There can be no outrage, methinks, against our common nature, —whatever be the delinquencies of the individual— no outrage more flagrant than to forbid the culprit to hide his face for shame; as it was the essence of this punishment to do.”

– Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter

As you know from reading The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne’s crime results in “public shaming,” a common practice in Puritan society. Do you believe “public shaming” should be used in our society to punish individuals who break laws? Would it deter more crime? Be sure to defend your position! Remember, if you enter the conversation after a few people have responded, respond to points your peers have made. Let's make this a discussion rather than individual posts!

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