Decriminalization

Encyclopedia : D : DE : DEC : Decriminalization

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Decriminalization is the reduction or abolition of criminal penalties in relation to certain acts. The reverse process is criminalization.

Decriminalization reflects changing social and moral views. A society may come to the view that an act is not harmful, should no longer be criminalized, or is otherwise not a matter to be addressed by the criminal justice system. Examples of subject matter which have been the subject of changing views on criminality over time in various societies and countries include:

• homosexuality
• prostitution
• the possession or use of marijuana
• Breastfeeding in public
• Non-sexual public nudity

While decriminalized acts are no longer crimes, they may still be the subject of regulation; for example, the licensing and regular medical testing of prostitutes, or a monetary penalty in place of a criminal charge for the possession of a soft drug. This should be contrasted with legalization, which removes all or most legal detriments from an offence.

See also

• Cannabis rescheduling

External links

• [Philosophical and ethical foundations of decriminalization]
• [Seattle Hempfest]

 

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