Question

According to which theory of punishment 'evil' should be returned by 'evil'?

• A. Deterrent theory
• B. Retributive theory
• C. Preventive theory
• D. Reformative theory

Hint:

Retributive justice is often associated with the moral concept of desert: the offender 'deserves' punishment because of their past harmful actions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: The philosophy of punishment has evolved through various schools of thought, each addressing the core question: why do we punish criminals? The Retributive theory is one of the oldest approaches.

Step 1: Defining the Retributive Theory.
The Retributive theory is based on the idea of 'lex talionis', an ancient code suggesting "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." It asserts that the criminal deserves to suffer proportionately to the wrong they have committed.

Step 2: Analyzing the core philosophy.
The philosophy holds that punishment is an end in itself. The offender has caused 'evil' (harm) to society, and therefore, an equivalent amount of 'evil' (punishment) must be returned to restore the moral balance.

Step 3: Distinguishing from other theories.
-

Deterrent: Aims to prevent future crimes by instilling fear.
-

Preventive: Focuses on disabling the criminal (e.g., imprisonment).
-

Reformative: Focuses on rehabilitating the criminal back into society. equation Theory of returning 'evil' with 'evil' = Retributive theory equation center Retributive theory center