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Which philosophy is based on the premise that the criminal justice system works for most citizens, and society can tolerate it when a small number of citizens are wrongfully convicted?

User Jhutar
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Final answer:

The philosophy that accepts the criminal justice system as beneficial despite some wrongful convictions is Utilitarianism. It is based on the principle that the overall well-being of society is prioritized, accepting a few wrongful convictions as a regrettable but acceptable risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

  • The philosophy mentioned in the question is known as Utilitarianism in the context of the criminal justice system. Utilitarianism is based on the principle that actions are right if they are useful or for the benefit of a majority.
  • Under this view, the criminal justice system is accepted as beneficial for most citizens, even if it results in the wrongful conviction of a few individuals.
  • The rationale behind this is that the overall well-being of society is improved, as the system effectively curtails more harm by convicting criminals than it does by errantly convicting a few innocent people.
  • It's a cost-benefit analysis where a small number of wrongful convictions are deemed an acceptable risk in the pursuit of a greater good.
User Scott Miller
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