How does fear play a role in the decisions made by legal authorities according to Stevenson?

The correct answer highlights the significant influence fear has on the behavior and choices of legal authorities, as discussed by Stevenson in "Just Mercy." Stevenson emphasizes that when authorities are driven by fear, they often prioritize immediate protection or safety over principles of justice and fairness. This can lead to decisions that favor punitive measures rather than seeking rehabilitation or understanding the complexities of individual cases. Such a prioritization may result in harsher sentencing, over-policing in certain communities, and an overall criminal justice system that operates reactively rather than thoughtfully and justly.

In the context of the book, this fear can manifest in various ways, including the demonization of certain populations or the urgency to dispense quick justice, even at the expense of fairness. Stevenson argues that this mindset can perpetuate cycles of violence and injustice, illustrating how fear undermines the foundational ideals of the legal system. Through personal stories and case studies, he showcases the real-life implications of decisions made out of fear, further reinforcing the critical nature of addressing this issue in the quest for true justice.