[rexpop]

Peer-reviewed research contradicts the hypothesis that fear of punishment is the main deterrent to murder. Studies show that factors like social norms, moral inhibitions, and certainty of informal sanctions play larger roles, while formal punishments like prison or execution have weak or null effects.

Prison sentences neither reduce recidivism (specific deterrence) nor broadly discourage crime. A survey of leading criminologists revealed overwhelming agreement (over 80%) that empirical evidence does not support the death penalty—or harsh punishment generally—as a superior deterrent to murder.

Broader factors like community ties, empathy, and internalized taboos explain low murder rates even without perfect enforcement.

Louis C. K. is just a loudmouth nitwit.