Aims of Punishment
Aims
The AQA Spec requires you to call the aims of punishment 'retribution', 'deterrence' and 'reformation'. For example, do not call 'retribution' 'revenge' or 'reformation' 'rehabilitation'.
Retribution
Retribution is getting revenge for what the criminal did. This usually involves doing the same thing (or something of a similar severity) to a criminal as what the criminal did to their victims. It is done by society on behalf of the victim.
It is usually done via corporal punishment (like the death penalty).
Examples:
- Imprisonment
- Death penalty
- Stoning
- Loss of body part
Some Chrisitians support the death penalty, quoting:
If there is a serious injury you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth
— Exodus
However, most interpret this as that murderers should be severely punished instead.
Many Christians are against the death penalty due to the Sanctity of Life.
Buddhists view that corporal punishment is wrong because it is a form of violence. They believe that a person will suffer anyway due to the principle of kamma.
Deterrence
The punishment is severe to make would-be offenders change their minds. For example, somebody that has been jailed for a long time would be less likely to re-offend to avoid being jailed again.
In the past, there was public floggings and executions. In modern day Britain this is widely seen as unacceptable, but it is still done in some countries.
Examples:
- Imprisonment
- Death penalty
- Stoning
- Fines
- Public humiliation
Many Christians oppose public punishments because they humiliate the offender, and all humans should be treated with respect regardless of their actions.
Reformation
The criminal is shown the error of their ways and changed into a better person. This helps criminals reintegrate into society and is supported by most religions. However, it doesn't work for everybody.
Examples:
- Therapy
- Community service
- Education
A criminal should be able to change, apologise, and repent.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good
There shouldn't be any revenge and the criminal should instead be shown compassion.