I – Punishment is a preset consequence imposed on an individual for being convicted of committing a codified crime.

II – Punishments are intended to deter certain behaviors.

III – Imposing punishments is intended to bring some measure of justice to the wronged parties.

IV – For punishment to serve the concept of justice, it must be appropriate, meaningful, and proportional to the crime.

V – Punishment and justice are necessary for the Common Good.

VI – It must be understood and accepted that punishment is a socially sanctioned form of retribution.

VII – There can never be true justice, as the consequences of any crime are permanent in some form.