What fundamental principle does the "three strikes law" illustrate?

The "three strikes law" illustrates the principle of mandatory sentencing for serious offenses. This law is designed to impose harsher sentences on individuals who are convicted of three or more serious crimes, often felonies. Essentially, after a third offense, the law mandates a significant and automated increase in prison time, regardless of the circumstances of the crime or the individual’s background.

This principle reflects a shift in the criminal justice system that prioritizes uniformity in sentencing for repeat offenders to deter future crime and to enhance public safety. It moves away from discretion in the sentencing process and places an emphasis on the number of strikes against an individual, ensuring that repeat offenders face predetermined and severe penalties. The law aims to prevent recidivism by removing the possibility of lighter sentences and offering a more rigid framework for dealing with those who repeatedly violate the law.