The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the topic of punishment. Specifically it will discuss the physical, emotional, and mental affects of each example. Many diverse and deviant forms of punishment and torture have used throughout the ages for intelligence, retribution, and even sexual pleasure. Pain, and the avoidance of pain, are two of the most motivating factors in human history. Most humans will do just about anything to avoid severe pain, and so, punishment and torture that mete out excruciating pain are incredibly effective in subjugating, humiliating, and ultimately breaking prisoners and suspects. And yet, pain can be pleasurable, too, and elicit sexual responses in some subjects. Each form of punishment elicits different responses and results in the individuals receiving and doling out the punishment. Forms of punishment that do not inflict permanent injury may not leave scars, but they are still effective ways to dominate, subjugate, and humiliate the victim.

             Physical punishment and torture are some of the most well-known and effective punishments known to humankind. Perhaps that is why that forms of punishment and torture have been used for thousands of years against enemies and criminals. There are many kinds of effective physical punishments, such as caning, flogging, branding, water and sexual torture, and even chemical torture. Most Americans would not believe these types of punishment are still routinely used in American prisons, but studies indicate this is the case. These types of punishment are extremely painful, and if continued, some of them can even cause death. .

             For example, caning (using a cane or stick to beat someone) and flogging (using a whip) are both notorious types of punishment that masters used on slaves. Used judiciously, they kept the slaves from "misbehaving." Used indiscriminately, they could kill or maim. That is why they were so effective - they were frightening in the pain and the physical scars they left behind.