The causal chain must be traced back to the most recent point where it was sensitive to a conscious decision in a mind capable of considering the law, because that’s the only point where distant deterrence or encouragement could have an effect.
I disagree.
Why stop at the most recent point?
If I pay someone to commit a crime, they are the most recent point; but I am still culpable of the crime, am I not?
I disagree.
Why stop at the most recent point?
If I pay someone to commit a crime, they are the most recent point; but I am still culpable of the crime, am I not?
Agreed, and that’s because if your hireling had not been the sort of person who accepts such offers you would presumably have found someone else.