Philosophy, et cetera 2008-05-21

Dogville on Punishment

For those who feel some reluctance to affirm negative judgments about other people, the film Dogville really helps to illustrate a more retributivist viewpoint. Consider the following exchange: [spoiler warning]The Big Man: You do not pass judgement, because you sympathize with them. A deprived childhood and a homicide really isn't necessarily a homicide, right? The only thing you can blame is circumstances. Rapists and murderers may be the victims, according to you. But I, I call them dogs, and if they're lapping up their own vomit the only way to stop them is with the lash... Dogs can be taught many useful things, but not if we forgive them every time they obey their own nature.Grace: So I'm arrogant. I'm arrogant because I forgive people?BM: My God. Can't you see how condescending you are when you say that? You have ...

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