Courses Quote by Clarence Darrow
“Punishment as punishment is not admissible unless the offender has had the freewill to select his course.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Trial of John Scopes, 1925
Punishment must be justified by the offender's conscious choice, not merely by the act itself.
In simple terms: Punishment needs free will.
Ensure accountability matches intent.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- court sentencing
- disciplinary actions
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the offender truly responsible for their choice?
- How do we assess free will in complex cases?
If coercion or ignorance influences behavior, punishment may be unjust.