Ethical issues in the text are described as involving broad social questions often concerning government social control mechanisms. Which factor is emphasized as central to these ethical concerns?

• A. The cost to the public
• B. The impact on those being governed
• C. The influence of religion
• D. Public opinion

Answer: (B)

At the heart of ethics in criminal justice practice is how government power and social control policies affect real people. When the text talks about ethical issues as broad social questions tied to government controls, the central factor emphasized is the impact on those being governed—their rights, liberties, safety, and overall well-being. Policies are judged by the consequences they have for individuals or groups under governance, including potential harms like unfair treatment, loss of privacy, or denial of due process. While cost to society, religious beliefs, or public opinion can shape discussions, they do not capture the core ethical concern described, which centers on how governance affects those it governs.