PSC 153 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: American Law Institute, New Trial, Diminished Responsibility
Document Summary
Psc 153 lecture 9 insanity defense. Argument that a defendant lacks moral responsibility and culpability for their crime, due to their mental state at the time they committed the crime. Maybe the most controversial area of intersection between psychology and law. Built on principle that people who commit crimes without full awareness should not be held fully responsible for their actions. Would not meet either goal of punishment: Retribution goal: to serve justice by administering punishment proportionate to harm committed (meant for victim/public) Deterrence goal: to discourage same/other people from committing harm ( meant for actual/potential future culprits ) The term insanity does not correspond to any diagnosis of mental disorder. In fact, even people who clearly suffer from mental illness might not qualify as insane. Clinical psychologists are often asked to evaluate insanity. Roman empire people without mastery of mind should not be punished for crime, 14th-16th century england religiously inspired good from evil test.
