17 years in isolation.
It can serve absolutely no punitive or reformatory purpose. It is of zero value as a means to compensation. Whether it is useful as a deterrent is unclear, but also immaterial.
The only purpose I can imagine is for the public to witness the misfortune of fellow citizens. A modern day public execution.
I am not hopeful that things will get better in the foreseeable future. I can only hope that our children judge us harshly.
17 years in isolation.