A sociological (mental) analysis on the understanding of social justice and the penal system in law

This study examines the relationship between the concept of social justice and the legal penal system from a sociological perspective, focusing on the influence of cultural structures, religious beliefs, and traditional values on individuals' perceptions of justice. It addresses the discrepancies that may arise between the state-imposed legal norms and the society's culturally embedded expectations of punishment, emphasizing how these differences affect public trust in the legal system and perceptions of fairness. Through the analysis of selected case studies that have left a significant impact on public opinion, the study reveals that societal reactions to incidents are shaped not only by legal frameworks but also by collective memory and socio-cultural norms. A comprehensive literature review supports the exploration of how penal codes are understood and internalized by society. The analysis of three specific incidents demonstrates that law, beyond being a codified structure, must align with societal values in order to maintain legitimacy. The study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of public perception regarding criminal justice and proposes a more integrated relationship between law and society.