Commit Quote by Dalai Lama
“Criminals, people who commit crimes, usually society rejects these people. They are also part of our society. Give them some form of punishment to say they were wrong, but show them they are part of society and can change. Show them compassion.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public talk on compassion and justice, Dalai Lama, 2000
Society should punish wrongdoing while also offering compassion and inclusion, recognizing offenders as members of the community capable of change.
In simple terms: Punish but also care for offenders.
Balance justice with compassion.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Criminal sentencing
- community reintegration programs
- victim‑offender mediation
- rehabilitation workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure punishment does not erode humanity?
- What structures support lasting change for offenders?
Punishment alone may not foster genuine reform and can reinforce alienation.