Instruction
1. What is a moral panic? Explain in detail how and why there are created. Identify and fully explain a specific example of a moral panic (past or present) in the realm of criminal justice.
2. Choose at least ONE of the listed policies below and discuss if the policy is grounded on empirical, ethical, or ideological grounds. Give detail and support explaining your decision.
mandatory minimum sentences
“three strikes and you are out” sentences
the war on drugs
sexual offender registries
the death penalty
zero tolerance in schools
3. What are the arguments in support of torture? What are the arguments against torture? In your informed opinion, is torture ever an ethical option? Explain and support.
4. Which ethical system would be the most effective for the U.S. to “win the war on terror”? Explain and support.
5. You are a member of Congress and the Patriot Act is coming up for a vote to renew its provisions. What would you do? Why?