IELTS7-Test2-Writing Task2
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Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.
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There are two different opinions on punishments for crime. Some people think that the punishments should be the same for each kind of crime, while others argue that it should be decided case by case because it matters that what’s behind the crime.
One reason that people stand fixed punishment is that it would be more efficient for the court to make decisions. If a crime is proved to be committed, the punishment is settled and clear, which means the court would not need to discuss what and how long the punishment is. Also, they believe that the criminals should take responsibility for their actions regardless of their intentions. Whoever commits this crime should receive the same punishment. For example, in China, if a driver drinks before getting on the road, he or she would be banned from driving for five years and taken in custody for fifteen days. There is no negotiation in it.
However, it does not apply to all cases. Some people argue that why and in what situation people commit the crime is necessary to know about. If the reason is justified, the court should try to understand and reconsider the punishment. In this case, a man should be not considered or sentenced as murderer when he tried to protect his family and killed the robber by accident, though he did kill someone.
In my opinion, the punishment should be flexible and decided based on several factors rather than the type of crime only. It is the court’s responsibility to check the background and justification of the crime and adjust the way and period of punishment.