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Comparing Punishment: Utilitarian And Retributive Theories

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Comparing Punishment: Utilitarian And Retributive Theories
In the philosophical debate on punishment scientists have been able to identify two main theories of punishment: utilitarian and retributive theories (Banks, 2013). These theories have been able to turn and generate discussions on punishment concerning deterrence, retribution, incapacitation and rehabilitation. However, these theories have been able to set forth a goal for punishment and various ways to prevent future crimes from happening (deterrence). Utilitarian thrive to achieves goals on punishment and preventing crimes from repeating itself (Lilly et al., 2011). To utilitarian philosophers, such as Bentham and Beccaria, punishment could only be justified if the harm of a crime was greater than an inflicted on an offender. According to

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