Did whipping boys have any influence on modern concepts of punishment?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Whipping Boy
Whipping boys, who were punished in place of royal children, highlighted the absurdity of punishing the innocent. This practice influenced modern concepts of punishment by emphasizing accountability and the importance of direct consequences for one's actions. It contributed to evolving ideas about justice, fairness, and the psychological impact of punishment, shaping contemporary views on rehabilitation over retribution.