Treatment of Criminals

Question 1

Outline three features of the 1998 Human Rights Act. (3)

Answer 1

• One feature is that people can have freedom from torture and degraded treatment.
• A second feature is that people have the right to liberty.
• A third feature is that people have the right to a fair trial.

Question 2

Explain two Jewish attitudes to the treatment of criminals. (4)

Answer 2

• One attitude is that the aim of punishment is ‘the return of the wicked to the ways of righteousness.’ This means that harsh punishment could drive an individual out of the community and into a lifetime of bad behaviour.
• A second attitude is that punishment should be aimed at achieving restorative justice. This is important as it allows the victim’s needs to be met and the ex-offender to be reintegrated into society.

Question 3

SOWAA for treating people well.

Answer 3

‘defend the rights of the poor and needy.’

Question 4

Explain two Jewish attitudes to fair trial and trial by jury. (4)

Answer 4

• One attitude is that all accused people are entitled to a fair trial and most Jews would agree with trial by jury. This means that the criminal must have a defence lawyer.
• A second attitude is that there should be a judge to make sure everything is done fairly and legally. This means that they should make a decision on what punishment should be given if they’re found guilty.

Question 5

Explain two reasons why Jews support human rights. (6)

Answer 5

• One reason is because they’ve previously suffered so much. This is because their human rights were denied. This is supported by ‘human rights are an integral part of faith and tradition of Judaism.’
• A second reason is because they support the teachings of the Tenakh. This is because the Tenakh teaches Jews to stand up for the poor and needy. This is supported by ‘defend the rights of the poor and needy.’

Question 6

Outline three reasons why Jews oppose the use of torture. (3)

Answer 6

• One reason is because they agree with the UN declaration of human rights.
• A second reason is because the Tenakh says that God opposes hurting the afflicted.
• A third reason is because people were made in the image of God so people shouldn’t be tortured.

Question 7

Outline three humanist beliefs about why criminals should be treated justly. (3)

Answer 7

• One reason is because criminals should have a fair trial.
• A second reason is because they should be treated humanely whilst in custody.
• A third reason is because they should never be subjected to torture.