WRITING TASK 2 - BAND 7.0+ / PUNISHMENT

Some people believe that there should be a fixed punishment 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.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

A heated debate today relates to whether a crime sentence should be fixed or dependent on the crime context. In this essay, I will examine this question from both points of view and explain why I believe the former approach is more reasonable due to its deterring effect.

Individualized sentencing proponents frequently emphasize the special circumstances of each crime. They point out that circumstances often influence how a person's life is shaped to the point where crime becomes a feasible alternative. Consider larceny or burglary; while the majority of thieves are poor and under financial pressure, their motivations are diverse. One person might steal as a means to survive, while another might do it out of jealousy, or just enjoy the rush of stealing. In those cases, though the act is the same, the situations appear to need distinct judgments. Someone who steals to satisfy their hunger cannot face the same punishment as a greedy criminal. Otherwise, it can result in unfairness.

However, others believe such distinctive punishments could undermine the legislation. According to this view, crime rates are likely to increase due to the fact that individuals can now make excuses to justify their criminality. It will be easier for most of them to get away with crime, which will result in increased crime. In contrast, if all cases of thievery are addressed equally, with little or no regard to the perpetrators' motives, fewer people may commit theft due to the fear of the predictable and consistent consequences. That is to say, individuals, in some cases, could be unjustly treated, but on the whole, it will benefit the public.

In conclusion, it is true that both arguments have their merits. On balance, however, I believe that fixed punishment is justified since it is more effective in deterring potential criminals. (298 words)

IELTS Khang Tran.