Well, I think it's a profound topic. Educatively and philosophically speaking, it makes people realize that it's wrong something or behavior. Because it can make people recognize that something is wrong by doing something wrong and being punished. In doing so, it can socialize humans and refine their nature. Politically and socially speaking, it can instill fear in people. It can build a fear through those who are punished and send a strong message through that fear. However, this is probably the way it works in countries with dictators or long-term rule.