Most people have forgotten the meaning behind traditional or religious festivals

 
98 
January 1, 2020 
86.
 
Prison versus Education 
The most common solution for criminal behaviour is prison but many believe 
education is a better method. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree? 
Many feel that instead of locking up criminals, we could better reduce crime by tackling 
systemic problems in our educational systems. In my opinion, although education is 
important, deterrence remains the primary inhibitor of criminality. 
Many see education as a better remedy as it holds long-term promise. The main cause of 
crime is poverty and that can be linked directly to education. Take for example countries 
with strong educational systems. In Singapore, which has one of the most well-regarded 
school systems in the world, the majority of graduates can find well paid jobs and the crime 
rate is consequently among the lowest globally. There is no cause to commit a crime if you 
have enough money to provide for yourself and your family. 
Despite the clear results education can bring about, deterrence remains the main reason 
why people do not commit crimes. If there was no threat of prison, people would feel free 
to steal, murder or commit whatever crime they choose. A good example of the effect of 
prison on crime is in countries with strict, mandatory sentencing guidelines. Many 
Southeast Asian countries have imposed severe sentences on drug related crimes to 
successfully curb drug trafficking and distribution. There is no substitute for the clearcut 
logic engendered by the threat of prison. 
To sum up, despite the admitted benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison 
prevents most crime. Countries ought to invest in sustainable solutions such as education 
and economic reform while not neglecting the irreplaceable role of incarceration. 

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