If he who breaks the law is not punished, he who obeys it is cheated. This, and this alone, is why lawbreakers ought to be punished: to authenticate as good, and to encourage as useful, law-abiding behavior. The aim of criminal law cannot be correction or deterrence; it can only be the maintenance of the legal order.

Summary

This quote argues that if individuals who break the law are not punished, it cheats those who abide by it. It states that lawbreakers should be punished to validate and promote law-abiding behavior. The quote argues against the notions of rehabilitation or deterrence as purposes of criminal law and asserts that its sole aim should be upholding and preserving the legal system. Essentially, the quote emphasizes the importance of law enforcement in ensuring fairness and encouraging a lawful society.

Topics