Do you think the current system of punishment in the United States works? Why or why not? What would you change about the system?

There are flaws to any punishment system. It works to an extent. Sometimes it is unknown whether or not someone is guilty of something, and may receive a punishment that they do not deserve. In addition, some people are not afraid of these punishments, and would commit crime anyways. Although, in general I would say that the punishment in the United States is feared by common people, not the ones who actually commit the crimes. I am unsure how I would change the system, as any changes would only present a new set of challenges.