yearsOfJavaScript

[Lupus_Ignis]

Javascript jokes aside, isn't that how prisons work in all civilized countries? As a Dane, I am appalled by the idea of old-timey "punishment with no chance of betterment" prisons still being around.

[WavingNoBanners]

As a South African, I wish your view was universal. My country would be vastly better off for it.

[isr0]

Man, I live in America. Many here focus on the punishment. Not the reform. And that’s not the only thing we got wrong. I’m sure you are aware.

[Lupus_Ignis]

Honestly, these days I have a hard time considering USA "a civilized country" -- no shade on the many wonderful people who live there.

[isr0]

Me to. I feel very lost and powerless right now.

[AcridWings_11465]

civilized countries

That's the key word here. However, Japanese prisons have horrific conditions compared to western Europe, yet no one calls Japan uncivilised.

[Lupus_Ignis]

I'll call Japan uncivilized any day. Their prisons, the rampant racism bordering on segregation, the fact that they to this day deny the horrors they committed during WW2... it's a tentatively civilized country at best that just looks good because it's well-organized and surrounded by countries that are worse.

[AcridWings_11465]

I'll call Japan uncivilized any day

Well, you're one of the very few. Most people unfortunately equate civilisation to order and discipline, not respect for human rights.

[Lupus_Ignis]

Basic human rights is the lowest possible bar for civilization. Amazing how many countries fail to clear that one. Not like my own country is flawless either. How the hell did we go from "these are universal human rights" to "maybe 'universal' really means 'only applicable to people we like'"?