The name implies correcting something. Is the purpose to correct unlawful behavior?
If that's so, then they fail miserably.
Is the purpose to keep dangerous criminals away from the rest of society?
If that's so, then they fail every time they let a dangerous criminal out.
Is the purpose punishment for crimes?
If that's so, then there must be a less expensive way to punish people for crimes.
Is the purpose to deter crime?
Same as punishment: If the potential punishment is not worth it, presumably people won't commit crimes.
But, they do commit crimes, so deterrence doesn't seem to be working very well either.
Or, is there some other purpose I've missed?
If that's so, then they fail miserably.
Is the purpose to keep dangerous criminals away from the rest of society?
If that's so, then they fail every time they let a dangerous criminal out.
Is the purpose punishment for crimes?
If that's so, then there must be a less expensive way to punish people for crimes.
Is the purpose to deter crime?
Same as punishment: If the potential punishment is not worth it, presumably people won't commit crimes.
But, they do commit crimes, so deterrence doesn't seem to be working very well either.
Or, is there some other purpose I've missed?