[yusee]

In theory, harsh prison conditions deter would-be criminals.

Do you have any evidence that reality conforms to this theory?

[tmptmp]

>>Do you have any evidence that reality conforms to this theory?

Do you have any evidence that reality doesn't conform to this theory?

Not a counter-question just for the sake of counter-questioning; I am sincerely interested in knowing.

[orkoden]

The US has harsh sentences and high crime.

[67726e]

Is it possible we would have higher crime with lighter sentences?

[tmptmp]

This in itself doesn't prove anything. Compared to what it's harsh and high? e.g. China may have harsher sentences and lower crime.