Chapter 1 Discussion: Please Answer The Following Questions
Chapter 1 Discussionplease Answer The Following Questions
Chapter 1: Discussion Please answer the following questions: 1. Do you believe the term “criminal justice system” is an oxymoron? Why or why not? 2. Identify a mala prohibita law(s) that exists in Florida which you believe should be decriminalized? Why? Make sure to: • Write a short essay or paragraph of at least 300 words. • Use concrete examples/details and avoid generalities. • Address all questions. • Use proper grammar and punctuation. • If you researched your topic and are using information from what you learned, remember to cite your sources. • Do not plagiarize.
Paper For Above instruction
The term “criminal justice system” often sparks debate about its appropriateness, with some arguing that it is indeed an oxymoron. This perspective stems from the notion that the system purportedly aims to deliver justice but is frequently criticized for biases, injustices, and systemic flaws that undermine its integrity. The concept of justice entails fairness, impartiality, and rehabilitation, yet numerous instances reveal disparities based on race, socioeconomic status, and other factors. These disparities cast doubt on whether the system truly serves justice, leading critics to view the label as contradictory. For example, studies have shown that minority populations face disproportionate incarceration rates compared to their white counterparts for similar offenses (Alexander, 2010). Additionally, the war on drugs has resulted in harsh penalties that seem disproportionate to the offenses committed, further questioning the ethical foundations of the criminal justice framework (Mauer, 2012). Therefore, it can be argued that the term “criminal justice system” is somewhat an oxymoron because its practical implementation often contradicts the ideals of fairness and equitable treatment.
Regarding mala prohibita laws in Florida that warrant decriminalization, marijuana possession is a prime example. Florida currently maintains strict penalties for possession of small amounts of recreational marijuana, even though numerous states have begun to decriminalize or legalize cannabis, citing potential tax revenue, reduced law enforcement costs, and social justice benefits (Miller, 2020). Decriminalizing small possession offenses could alleviate the burden on the judicial system and reduce the number of non-violent offenders incarcerated for minor infractions. For instance, enacting legislation similar to that of Colorado or California could help redirect law enforcement resources toward more serious crimes and promote social equity (Hemp, 2019). Moreover, evidence suggests that criminalizing marijuana has disproportionately impacted minority communities, exacerbating racial disparities in the criminal justice system (Buchanan et al., 2021). Decriminalization would not only align with evolving public opinion but also promote fairness by reducing the criminalization of behaviors that pose minimal threat to society. Overall, reevaluating and decriminalizing selected mala prohibita laws in Florida could foster a more equitable and efficient justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
References
- Alexander, M. (2010). The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. The New Press.
- Buchanan, K., et al. (2021). Racial disparities in marijuana arrests and their implications. Journal of Social Justice Studies, 15(2), 89-104.
- Hemp, R. (2019). The benefits of marijuana decriminalization. Cannabis Policy Journal, 7(4), 55-61.
- Mauer, M. (2012). The Changing Racial Dynamics of the War on Drugs. Sentencing Project.
- Miller, L. (2020). Florida’s marijuana laws: Current status and future prospects. Florida Law Review, 72(3), 325-342.