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What are the 2 main theories of punishment?

What are the 2 main theories of punishment?

Theories of punishment can be divided into two general philosophies: utilitarian and retributive. The utilitarian theory of punishment seeks to punish offenders to discourage, or “deter,” future wrongdoing. The retributive theory seeks to punish offenders because they deserve to be punished.

What is the retribution theory of punishment?

THE RETRIBUTIVIST BASES THE THEORY OF PUNISHMENT ON THE BELIEF THAT AN OFFENDER DESERVES TO RECEIVE SUFFERING THAT MATCHES THE SEVERITY OF THE CRIME COMMITTED.

How many forms of retributive theory are there?

The retributive theory assumes that the punishment is given only for the sake of it. Thus, it suggests that evil should be returned for evil without taking into consideration any consequences. There are two theories in which this theory can be divided further.

What is the Retributivist theory?

Retributivist theory focusses on punishment to only those who ‘deserve’ it. Unlike deterrence theory, an innocent can never be punished. Since they are backward-looking, they are not concerned with the possibility of a person committing a crime. For punishment to be meted out, a person must be found guilty.[16]

What is retributive justice theory?

retributive justice, response to criminal behaviour that focuses on the punishment of lawbreakers and the compensation of victims. In general, the severity of the punishment is proportionate to the seriousness of the crime.

What are 3 theories of punishment?

Deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation are all arguments that look to the consequences of punishment. They are all forward‐looking theories of punishment. That is, they look to the future in deciding what to do in the present. The shared goal of all three is crime prevention.

What is retribution in sociology?

Lesson Summary Sociologists have identified four basic reasons why society punishes wrongdoers: retribution, deterrence, rehabilitation, and societal protection. Retribution is punishment by which society makes the offender suffer as much as the suffering caused by the crime.