128· 10 ·
Pre-reading
Using the following questionnaire, interview your classmates, colleagues, family,
and friends.
Questionnaire A B C
Do you think the criminal justice system in your country
does a good job of dealing with crime? Yes | No
How do you rate punishment for crimes in your country?
a. Too severe
b. Adequate
c. Not severe enough
Do you agree with capital punishment? Yes | No
Do you think the criminal justice system helps the victims
of crimes? Yes | No
Do you think that the victim of a crime, his or her family,
and the community should be included in decisions about
the punishment of a criminal? Yes | No
What is the best way to deal with people who harm others?
a. Give them long prison sentences.
b. Make them apologize and pay something back to
victims and their families.
c. Get them professional treatment for their behavior.
d. Have them do community service.
e. Try to understand the reasons for their actions and
help them.
f. Other (specify: )Healing circles
A gentler justice