This unit discusses the main theories of punishment, deterrence, rehabilitation, incapacitation and retribution/desert. It then examines the principles of sentencing used in legislation and by the courts and considers how these principles accord with the various theories of punishment. Among the areas of emphasis are the development and use of community-based alternatives to imprisonment, the role of imprisonment, the sentencing of recidivist and dangerous offenders, the proper roles of the courts and Parliament, problems of sentencing disparity and the sentencing of Aboriginal offenders. -- Course Website
