Addressing Divine Retribution in Prisons: Ethical Considerations and Rehabilitation

The idea of reminding inmates of hell through VR versions is highly controversial and morally questionable. It raises ethical concerns, legal implications, and practical difficulties that make it an infeasible and unethical method of prison rehabilitation. Here, we explore these issues and propose alternative, more humane approaches to addressing the rehabilitation and spiritual well-being of inmates.

Enforced Isolation from Reality: Unethical Psychological Torture

The concept of reminding inmates of hell through VR versions before they go to sleep, especially after long work shifts, is akin to psychological torture. It's important to recognize that such practices not only harm the emotional and psychological state of inmates but also violate fundamental rights and ethical standards.

Who would decide the version of hell the inmates experience? This decision-making process is fraught with subjective biases and lacks a standardized approach. The idea itself is deeply flawed, as it suggests that the version of hell should be tailored to individual beliefs or behaviors, which is both unfair and unethical.

No Evidence of Hell, Only Collective Beliefs

Stellise’s argument brings up a valid point: the concept of hell is largely a collective and interpretative belief rather than an objectively verifiable entity. The Bible mentions the concept of hell, but it is more accurately described as the abode of evil spirits and the dead. Rev. 20:13 and Matt. 25:46 provide different perspectives on the fate after death, but none suggest a lived experience of hell in any physical form.

Furthermore, the term “hell” has been translated from various languages and contexts, leading to multiple interpretations. The margin of Rev. 20:13 refers to “the grave where there is no life,” while Rev. 20:10 describes the Lake of Fire for Satan and his followers. Matt. 25:46 and Mal. 4 also suggest that the burning up and ashes will not cause torment for a finite time. It is crucial to approach these texts with a scholarly, rather than a literal, mindset.

Real Hell Is Around Us

Inmates already face a form of hell every day. The isolation from loved ones, the hatred they face, and the loss of normal life are profound experiences of suffering. They do not need to be reminded of it. The real hell is within the prison walls, and addressing that reality should be the focus of any reform efforts.

Instead of exacerbating the suffering, we should strive to provide a more humane environment. This includes access to spiritual materials, counseling, and educational resources. Inmates need to be treated with dignity and respect, and their rehabilitation should be a process that prioritizes their well-being and future success.

Truth and Love as the Foundation

The central thesis put forth by Stellis is that inmates need truth and love in their mentality to heal. Truth and love are fundamental in addressing the spiritual and psychological needs of inmates. While VR versions of hell could be marketed as an art or cultural experience, they are likely to be seen as cruel and unusual punishment in the eyes of the public and ethics committees.

Instead, visual and textual materials that depict heaven, hell, and purgatory can be effective tools. These resources, combined with counseling and educational programs, can provide inmates with the necessary tools to engage in spiritual exploration and growth. The Bible and the lives of saints are powerful resources that have converted many individuals, and these should be made available to all prisoners.

Jesus’ command to “love God and our neighbor as ourselves” should guide all actions related to inmate treatment. This commandment emphasizes the importance of ethically treating inmates, a principle that should be central to any form of prison reform. Holistic rehabilitation that considers the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of inmates is the most effective approach to ensuring their rehabilitation and future success.

Conclusion

The ethical treatment of inmates is crucial for the functioning of our society. Instead of reminding inmates of an ethereal concept of hell, we should focus on providing them with the tools and resources they need to find hope, justice, and spiritual peace. Truth and love, not fear and manipulation, should be the cornerstone of any prison reform effort.