Does the punishment fit the crime?

• Author: Cohen, Randy
• Position: THE ETHICIST - Brief article

When I lived in Singapore, my apartment was robbed and the robber was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 10 strokes with a cane. This seems excessive and barbaric. I want to appeal for mercy on his behalf, but must I accept Singaporean justice?

--David Powell, Connecticut

NO, YOU MUSTN'T. You don't abandon moral reason when you leave home. Keeping silent isn't a sign of respect: You should appeal for justice. Do so with civility and with knowledge of...