Forgiveness is a private matter. The state exists to do justice on our behalf, and part of that is vengeance. You can forgive murderers all you like on your own behalf, but not on mine.
Good post.
In the film How The West Was Won, Karl Malden played Zeb Prescott, a character that had a memorable bit of dialogue. After he and some family members survived a battle with murderous outlaws, he prayed:
"O Lord, without consulting with Thee, we have sent thy way some souls whose evil ways passeth all understanding. We ask Thee humbly to receive them... whether you want them or not! Amen."
Yes it is. But a reason used for CP is the personal benefit to the families of the victim. That's my argument about forgiveness comes in.
The state exists to do justice on our behalf, and part of that is vengeance.
Well, vengeance has been shown to not be very helpful. The state should not be in business of vengeance but PROTECTION of our lives and freedoms from any source including criminals. So secure incarceration for that reason, IMO, is a valid function of the state.