Wages of Evil: Dostoevsky and Punishment

Dostoevsky's views on punishment are shaped by his Christian ethics and the debates on penal theory and practice. He displays ambivalence about punishment and mercy, and believes that a proper response must include a concern for the wrongdoers moral improvement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

Dostoevsky's views on punishment are typically explored through the lens of his Christian beliefs. For some, this implies a leaning towards mercy; for others, it signifies the affirmation of suffering as a means of redemption. Anna Schur incorporates sources from philosophy, criminology, psychology, and history to argue that Dostoevsky's thinking about punishment was shaped not only by his Christian ethics but also by the debates on penal theory and practice unfolding during his lifetime.

As Dostoevsky navigates the complex interplay between ethical and cultural imperatives, he exhibits ambivalence towards both punishment and mercy. This ambivalence, as argued by Schur, is further complicated by Dostoevsky's perception of the unfathomable nature of the self, which poses challenges in matching crimes with appropriate punishments. However, one certainty that he firmly upholds is that a just response to wrongdoing must prioritize the moral improvement of the wrongdoer.

Dostoevsky's exploration of punishment is deeply rooted in his Christian convictions. He believes that punishment should serve as a means of correcting and reforming individuals, rather than solely as retribution. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the motivations behind a crime and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to wrongdoing. This approach aligns with the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized the need for love, forgiveness, and redemption rather than punishment.

However, Dostoevsky's views on punishment are not without their complexities. He recognizes that punishment can be both just and unjust, depending on the circumstances and the intentions behind it. He also acknowledges the potential for abuse and corruption within the criminal justice system, which can undermine the intended purpose of punishment. As a result, he advocates for a more nuanced and compassionate approach to punishment that considers the individual's circumstances, past behavior, and potential for change.

One of the key themes in Dostoevsky's work is the concept of the "double bind." This refers to a situation where an individual is trapped by conflicting demands or expectations, resulting in a sense of paralysis and confusion. In the context of punishment, this can manifest as the paradoxical situation where the wrongdoer is punished for their actions, but also suffers as a result of the punishment. Dostoevsky explores this concept in his novel Crime and Punishment, where Raskolnikov, the protagonist, is caught in a double bind between his desire for personal redemption and his fear of punishment.

Another important aspect of Dostoevsky's thinking about punishment is the role of suffering. He believes that suffering can be a transformative force, leading individuals to self-awareness, empathy, and moral growth. He sees suffering as a means of purifying the soul and promoting spiritual awakening. This perspective aligns with the teachings of many religious and philosophical traditions, which emphasize the importance of suffering as a path to enlightenment and personal transformation.

In addition to his Christian commitments, Dostoevsky was influenced by the debates on penal theory and practice that were prevalent during his lifetime. He was particularly interested in the works of Cesare Beccaria, a 18th-century Italian philosopher who advocated for a rational and humane approach to punishment. Beccaria's ideas on the deterrent effect of punishment and the importance of proportionality in sentencing were influential in shaping Dostoevsky's views on punishment.

Despite his ambivalence towards punishment, Dostoevsky ultimately believes that a proper response to wrongdoing must include a concern for the wrongdoer's moral improvement. He believes that punishment should serve as a means of correcting and reforming individuals, rather than simply punishing them for their actions. This approach aligns with the principles of restorative justice, which emphasizes the importance of repairing the harm caused by crime and promoting community healing.

In conclusion, Dostoevsky's views on punishment are complex and multifaceted. They are shaped by his Christian beliefs, his understanding of human nature, and the debates on penal theory and practice that were prevalent during his lifetime. As he attempts to balance the various ethical and cultural imperatives, he displays ambivalence towards punishment and mercy. However, one certainty he holds is that a proper response to wrongdoing must include a concern for the wrongdoer's moral improvement. Through his novels and essays, Dostoevsky offers a profound exploration of the human condition, challenging readers to consider the complexities of punishment and the potential for redemption and transformation.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810144484