What is one primary purpose of punishment?

The primary purpose of punishment in the context of corrections and criminal justice is to deter others from committing similar crimes. Deterrence serves as a fundamental principle in the legal system, where the notion is that by imposing consequences for wrongdoing, it discourages not only the punished individual from repeating their offenses but also deters potential offenders in the broader community. The fear of facing similar repercussions can act as a strong influence on individuals considering criminal behavior.

While rehabilitation is important, and establishing a routine can benefit inmates, these are not the primary purpose of punishment in the traditional sense. Punishment as a deterrent focuses on preventing future crime by making an example of offenders, thus fostering a safer society overall.