The extent to which the background characteristics of offenders should play a role in determining a sentence is a matter of debate. On one hand, some argue that an offender's background can provide important context for their behavior and help to explain why they committed the crime. This information can be used to tailor a sentence that is more appropriate for the individual offender and takes into account their unique circumstances.
On the other hand, others argue that an offender's background should not play a role in determining a sentence, as it could lead to unequal treatment under the law. If two individuals commit the same crime, they should receive the same punishment, regardless of their background characteristics. Additionally, some argue that focusing on an offender's background could lead to a "blame the victim" mentality, where the offender's behavior is excused or minimized because of their upbringing or other factors outside of their control.
Ultimately, the role that an offender's background should play in determining a sentence is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of a variety of factors.