Question:
Answer:
These kinds of questions fall under the category of prudential judgment.
Generally speaking, solitary confinement has been found to be psychologically injurious to prisoners. However, there are circumstances when the safety of prison officials and other inmates necessitates solitary confinement for a prisoner.
As Catholics we have a voice in the debate regarding the appropriate circumstances in which this technique should be applied. Just because something is a matter of prudential judgment does not mean it is a moral free for all. All sides to a debate regarding prudential judgment in a particular area must be able to advocate and defend their position on moral and practical grounds. Holding each other morally accountable is essential to living in a just society.
A life sentence in solitary confinement is a serious and potentially psychologically devastating punishment. Proponents need to explain why this is necessary given the risks to the prisoner who is still entitled to basic human rights.