It Is Difficult to Know When to Apply the Prohibition

question 16

Multiple Choice

It is difficult to know when to apply the prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment because ______.

• A) the definitions of cruel and unusual are difficult to establish
• B) the public presses the government to inflict cruel punishments
• C) cruel punishments are often warranted
• D) crime can be suppressed only if the government is willing to be cruel
• E) unusual punishments are often necessary for unusual defendants

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Definitions:

Michel Foucault

A French philosopher and historian known for his critical studies of social institutions, including the human sciences, prisons, and the history of sexuality.

Historical Matter

Subjects, events, or objects of study that pertain to the recorded past, including artifacts, documents, and locations associated with human history.

Knowledge

The understanding, awareness, or familiarity gained through experience or education by perceiving, discovering, or learning.

Science

The disciplined pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and truth through experimental observation, empirical evidence, and theoretical explanation.