Treatment of Criminals

Question 1

Outline 3 human rights that forbid torture

Answer 1

1. Right to freedom from torture and degraded treatment.
2. Right to liberty.
3. Right to fair trial.

Question 2

How does situation ethics justifies the use of torture?

Answer 2

1. Torture can provide useful information. This means that you are protecting innocent lives.
2. The lesser of two evils is torturing terrorists to prevent terrorist attacks.

Question 3

What does the Tenakh say about torture?

Answer 3

1. Opposes harming the innocents. This means torture cannot be used. ‘maintain the rights of the poor.’
2. It can be allowed in some cases. In the case of a pursuer to save innocent lives. ‘even at the cost of the pursuer’s life.’

Question 4

Explain 2 Jewish beliefs about fair trial and trial by jury

Answer 4

1. All accused people are entitled to a fair trial. This is because Jews are instructed to seek justice. ‘seek justice.’
2. Most Jews would agree to trial by jury. 12 members of the public decide guilt.

Question 5

Explain 2 Jewish beliefs about attitudes to treatment of criminals.

Answer 5

1. Freeing someone in prison is a mitzvah. This means criminals should be treated fairly.
2. No overly harsh punishment. Could drive an individual into a life of bad behaviour. ‘return … to the ways of righteousness.’

Question 6

Explain 2 Jewish beliefs about human rights

Answer 6

1. Have always been supporters of human rights, have suffered greatly from having them denied.
2. The Tenakh teaches them to ‘seek justice.’ Means they should stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Question 7

Non Religious Beliefs:

Answer 7

1. Treating criminals fairly means that innocent suspects are treated fairly.
2. Focus on reformation and re-intergration back into society.