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“Punishment as punishment is not admissible unless the offender has had the freewill to select his course.” quote by Clarence Darrow
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“Punishment as punishment is not admissible unless the offender has had the freewill to select his course.”

Clarence Darrow

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.

Key Takeaway

Ensure accountability matches intent.

Themes

justice freewill law morality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical legal

When to use this quote

  • court sentencing
  • disciplinary actions
  • policy making

Key Concepts

ethical responsibility legal theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the offender truly responsible for their choice?
  • How do we assess free will in complex cases?
A Different Perspective

If coercion or ignorance influences behavior, punishment may be unjust.

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