Zero tolerance

Zero tolerance is a policy that mandates predetermined consequences or punishments for specific offenses, regardless of the circumstances or the behavior's severity. The term is most commonly associated with U.S. educational system policies that mandate expulsion or suspension for certain behaviors, but it has also been applied to law enforcement, particularly for drug-related offenses and crimes involving firearms.

History

The concept of zero tolerance originated in the Drug Enforcement Administration in the 1980s, during the War on Drugs. The policy was initially intended to target high-level drug traffickers, but it was later expanded to include low-level offenders. This approach was subsequently adopted by schools in the 1990s, in response to concerns about violence and drug use.

Criticism

Zero tolerance policies have been criticized for being overly harsh and for failing to take into account the circumstances surrounding an offense. Critics argue that these policies can result in unfair punishments, particularly for minor offenses. They also argue that zero tolerance policies can disproportionately affect certain groups, such as students of color and students with disabilities.

See also

• School-to-prison pipeline
• War on Drugs
• Discipline in schools

References

Zero tolerance Resources
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