Deterrence is the central theme of what theory of corrective justice?

Deterrence is the central theme of what theory of corrective justice?

• A. Utilitarian
• B. Retributive
• C. Substantive
• D. Compensatory

Answer: (A)

Deterrence fits the utilitarian view because punishment is justified by its consequences for overall welfare. In a utilitarian framework, the aim of punishment is to prevent future harm and promote safety, not to avenge or morally balance the wrong done. By making examples (general deterrence) and by discouraging the individual offender (specific deterrence), punishment serves to reduce crime and increase social good. This focus on outcomes and consequences is why deterrence is central to utilitarian theories of corrective justice. The other options prioritize blame and desert (retributive) or restitution to victims (compensatory), or don’t center on consequences in the same way, so they don’t align with deterrence as the core idea.

Deterrence fits the utilitarian view because punishment is justified by its consequences for overall welfare. In a utilitarian framework, the aim of punishment is to prevent future harm and promote safety, not to avenge or morally balance the wrong done. By making examples (general deterrence) and by discouraging the individual offender (specific deterrence), punishment serves to reduce crime and increase social good. This focus on outcomes and consequences is why deterrence is central to utilitarian theories of corrective justice. The other options prioritize blame and desert (retributive) or restitution to victims (compensatory), or don’t center on consequences in the same way, so they don’t align with deterrence as the core idea.