Asked by Minnie Saini on Sep 25, 2024

Theories that set the goal of punishment as the prevention of future crime are derived from ______ philosophy.

A) utilitarian
B) Draconian
C) retributivist
D) just deserts

Utilitarian Philosophy

An ethical theory suggesting that the best action is the one that maximizes utility, usually defined as that which produces the greatest well-being of the greatest number of people.

Preventing Crime

Actions or strategies designed to stop criminal activities before they occur.

Draconian

is an adjective describing extremely harsh and severe laws or measures, originally referring to the rigorous code of Draco in ancient Athens.

  • Discriminate between the perspectives of punishment that are oriented towards the past (retributive) versus those aimed at the future (preventive).
  • Understand the foundational philosophies that inform utilitarian and retributive approaches to punishment.