Just deserts or retribution is a non-utilitarian theory of corrections, which means which of the following?
A) the main focus is on crime control
B) by inflicting harm the criminal reforms and never commits crime again
C) inflicting harm is what achieves justice
D) the main focus is to remove the offender from society

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Just deserts or retribution theory holds that punishment should be based on the severity of the crime committed and that inflicting harm on the offender is what achieves justice, not necessarily the prevention of future crime or the rehabilitation of the offender. This is in contrast to utilitarian theories which prioritize crime control and the reduction of harm to society as a whole. Therefore, the correct choice is C - inflicting harm is what achieves justice.

Just Deserts or Retribution Is a Non-Utilitarian Theory of Corrections