I think...the eighth amendment greatly protects us from unreasonable physical punishments from the government. However, the vagueness of the wording leaves a lot of room for debate, especially the “cruel and unusual punishments” clause. I believe that the framers of the Constitution anticipated that future generations may have different opinions of what is “cruel” and what is “normal” punishment, which is why they left the phrasing so open-ended. I also think that in modern society, any form of torture seems to be considered “inhumane”, which limits the courts’ choice of punishment to either fines or prison or death. Although many people are against the death penalty, I personally consider it to be reasonable compared to a life-sentence in jail. I mean, what would be the meaning of the prisoners’ existence if they are locked up day after day with nothing to do whatsoever? Also, why would the government bother raising these people when there are debts to be paid, schools and hospitals to be built, and other things to be done? But that’s just my personal view… what do you think?
*The picture on the right is an example of "unusual punishment." As entertaining as it is, it's technically unconstitutional. |