The Past, Present, and Future of Punishment (Including Schools)
Introduction
Punishment is as old as civilization. It’s been used to enforce rules, correct behavior, and display authority—whether in society or in the classroom. But what punishment means, and how it’s carried out, has shifted dramatically across time. This piece explores the evolution of punishment in both the legal system and schools, the types of punishments used, and the philosophies that shape them.
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The Past: Punishment as Fear, Pain, and Control
In Society
Historically, punishments were designed to be painful, public, and symbolic. Justice systems often focused on retribution and deterrence rather than reform.
Examples:
• Public execution
• Whipping and flogging
• Exile and branding
• Torture and mutilation
These methods aimed to control society by instilling fear and demonstrating state power.
In Schools
Schools in the past often mirrored the harshness of the justice system. The teacher held absolute authority, and students were punished not just for misbehavior, but for disobedience or perceived disrespect.
Common historical school punishments:
• Corporal punishment (caning, slapping with rulers)
• Kneel-down punishment, often for long periods, causing discomfort and shame
• Holding ears while squatting—sometimes called “sit-ups” or “murga position” in parts of Asia—meant to humiliate and cause physical strain
• Standing in the corner as public shaming
• Dunce cap—a pointed hat symbolizing foolishness
• Writing lines repetitively as a form of penance
These methods were widespread across Europe, Asia, and other regions. In many cultures, kneeling or holding ears was symbolic of repentance or submission—used to control students through discomfort and embarrassment.
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The Present: Punishment as Correction and Guidance
In Society
In modern legal systems, punishment tends to focus on deterrence, rehabilitation, and containment, though retribution still plays a role.
Examples include:
• Incarceration
• Fines and probation
• Community service
• Restorative justice programs
• Rehabilitation centers
Human rights, fairness, and proportionality are now core principles—at least in democratic nations.
In Schools
Most countries today have banned corporal punishment. In many places, practices like kneeling or ear-holding are now considered abusive or humiliating and are illegal. The modern classroom emphasizes supportive discipline and emotional development.
Common disciplinary approaches:
• Verbal warnings and loss of privileges
• Detention or isolation from activities
• Suspension or expulsion (as a last resort)
• Behavior contracts and counseling
• Restorative circles or peer mediation
• Positive behavior interventions
However, in some countries and under-resourced schools, older forms of discipline like kneeling and ear-holding may still be used—raising serious concerns about child welfare and the psychological impact of shame-based punishments.
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The Future: Prevention Over Punishment
In Society
As we understand more about trauma, inequality, and the causes of crime, justice systems are slowly shifting toward preventive and restorative models.
Future trends may include:
• Abolishing prisons in favor of social support systems
• Predictive policing and AI (ethically questionable)
• Brain-based behavioral treatments
• Fully restorative and community-led justice systems
In Schools
The future of school discipline looks toward inclusion, healing, and student empowerment, rather than control.
Possible developments:
• Elimination of exclusionary discipline (suspensions/expulsions)
• Widespread use of restorative justice
• Trauma-informed teaching and mental health support
• Culturally responsive discipline policies
• Abolishing all humiliating punishments—including kneeling and ear-holding—as outdated and harmful
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Philosophical Approaches to Punishment
These apply both in society and in schools:
1. Retributivism
Key idea: Wrongdoers deserve punishment proportional to their offense.
In schools: Misbehavior earns detention or suspension automatically.
2. Utilitarianism
Key idea: Punishment prevents future harm.
In schools: Discipline is used to maintain order and deter disruption.
3. Rehabilitation
Key idea: People can change with the right support.
In schools: Behavioural support plans, mentorship, and counseling.
4. Restorative Justice
Key idea: Repairing relationships and understanding harm.
In schools: Circles, apologies, dialogue between student and teacher.
5. Abolitionism / Critical Theory
Key idea: Many punishments reinforce social inequalities and should be dismantled.
In schools: Criticism of harsh punishments that disproportionately target minority or neurodiverse students.
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Conclusion
Punishment has evolved from painful obedience to reflective learning. In both courts and classrooms, old methods like kneeling and ear-holding are increasingly recognized as harmful