What does general deterrence aim to achieve?

General deterrence aims to achieve the prevention of crime by creating a fear of consequences among potential offenders. This concept is based on the idea that if individuals are aware of the punishments that they could face for committing a crime, they are less likely to engage in criminal behavior. By instilling this fear, it serves as a psychological barrier that discourages individuals from taking actions that would violate the law.

The goal is not to rehabilitate those who have already offended, implement surveillance, or encourage criminals to turn themselves in, but rather to influence the broader population by making the cost of criminal activity outweigh the benefits. This deterrent effect is ideally intended to reduce overall crime rates and promote public safety.