Zero tolerance is the concept of compelling persons in positions of authority, who might otherwise exercise their discretion in making subjective judgments regarding the severity of a given offense, to impose a pre-determined punishment regardless of individual culpability or "extenuating circumstances".[citation needed]
Zero tolerance policies are studied in criminology and are common in formal and informal policing systems around the world.[citation needed] The policies also appear in informal situations where there may be sexual harassment or Internet misuse in educational and workplace environments.[citation needed]