Every modern state sentences convicted offenders for their crimes. But what justifies the imprisonment of democratic citizens and how do we determine the severity of sentences? Does the theory of punishment closely connect with its practice? Should we support one purpose for sentencing or multiple purposes? Or should we reject sentencing in favour of alternatives to imprisonment? This volume brings together classic journal articles on sentencing selected from the work of leading, international figures in the field to address these controversial issues. Sentencing is examined from various critical perspectives, including the relation of theory and practice, the Model Penal Code and development of sentencing guidelines, the link between sentencing and emotions, punitive restoration, and sentencing alternatives such as restorative justice.