[markhahn]

This logic depends on law-breakers being fully rational agents.

Yes, there are some, at least some of the time, but very few.

[AYBABTME]

If they're not rational, they can go to jail? Isn't that the idea of jails: take people out of the system if they refuse to act by the rules of the system at other people's detriment.

[whimsicalism]

Think there is not a clear ‘idea of jails’.

To me, the length of sentences in the US suggest that a primary purpose is deterrence, not merely keeping dangerous people off the street.

[aidenn0]

That is one of 4 reasons for jails. The other 3 are:

- Rehabilitation

- Retribution

- Deterrence