The paragraph is followed by an incomplete phrase or sentence which summarizes the main idea of the paragraph. Choose the missing words of the phrase or sentence.

I'm not opposed to punishment (except capital punishment). However, we cannot deal effectively with teen violence through the threat of the criminal justice system. The threat of punishment, no matter how harsh, cannot deter kids who face the threat of violence every day in their classrooms and their neighborhoods. As far as they are concerned, the criminal justice system can just take a number and wait its turn in line. Often these are juveniles who care little about the future, who don't expect to live past their 21st birthday. The prospect of a long-term prison sentence or even the death penalty will not dissuade them in the least. 

The （） of the threat of the criminal justice system.