Which of the following is a recurring theme throughout the history of penology?

A. Enlightenment
B. Compassion
C. Deterrence
D. Overcrowding

I think it's C, but not too sure.

It's definitely C.

I answered C and took the quiz and got it wrong. I won't know the right answer until tomorrow when they update my page on line.

I'm mystified. Please post the "right" answer. Also check your book to see what that author says.

The question asks about a recurring theme throughout the history of penology, which is the study of punishment and rehabilitation of criminals. To determine the answer, we need to understand the concept of penology and analyze the given options.

Option A is Enlightenment, which refers to a philosophical and intellectual movement that emphasized reason, science, and progress during the 18th century. While Enlightenment ideas did have significant influence on the development of penology, it is not necessarily a recurring theme throughout its history.

Option B is Compassion, which refers to showing sympathy and understanding towards individuals who have committed crimes. Compassion is indeed an important aspect of penology and has been a recurring theme, as it emphasizes the need for rehabilitation rather than strict punishment. However, it is not the only recurring theme.

Option C is Deterrence, which means using punishment to discourage people from committing crimes. This is a significant theme in the history of penology as the concept of deterrence has been used as a basis for various forms of punishment throughout time. Deterrence focuses on the threat of punishment as a means of preventing criminal behavior, and it has consistently played a role in shaping penal systems.

Option D is Overcrowding, which refers to the issue of prisons filling up beyond their intended capacity. While overcrowding has been a problem within the field of penology, it is not necessarily a recurring theme throughout its history. It is more of a specific challenge that penal systems face rather than a broad theme.

Considering the above explanations, the correct answer to the question is C. Deterrence. It is a recurring theme throughout the history of penology, as the concept of deterrence has played a significant role in shaping approaches to punishment and rehabilitation.