“Let the punishments of criminals be useful. A hanged man is good for nothing; a man condemned to public works still serves the country, and is a living lesson.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“Let the punishments of criminals be useful. A hanged man is good for nothing; a man condemned to public works still serves the country, and is a living lesson.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s view on the purpose and effectiveness of punishment. He argues that punishment should have a constructive or rehabilitative value rather than simply being an end in itself. For Voltaire, executing a criminal, such as by hanging, serves no purpose other than to take away life, whereas forcing a person to do public works allows them to contribute to society and, in doing so, serves as both a deterrent and a reminder of the consequences of crime.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with discussions on criminal justice reform and rehabilitation. The notion that punishment should aim to reform rather than simply punish aligns with modern ideas of restorative justice, where the focus is on reintegrating offenders into society in a productive way. Voltaire’s quote challenges punitive approaches that seek only retribution, advocating for a more constructive, societal-focused system of justice.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in modern alternatives to imprisonment, such as community service or rehabilitation programs, where offenders contribute to society while also undergoing reformative processes. By engaging in work that benefits the community, criminals can atone for their actions, while also gaining opportunities for personal growth and redemption. Voltaire’s words encourage us to think of punishment not merely as retribution, but as a chance for both the individual and society to benefit.
