Retributivism

Theories of Punishment

In this course, Professor Victor Tadros (University of Warwick) explores theories of punishment. In the first module, we examine retributivism. In the second module we turn to consequentialism. In the third module, we consider theories which combine the positive aspects of the retributivist and consequentialist theories, and address the problems of each approach. In the fourth module, we look at the relationship between free will and punishment. In the fifth module we look at theories concerning the scope of the criminal law, and justifications for what should and should not be punished.

Retributivism

In this module, we examine retributivism, focusing in particular on (i) the meaning of retributivism (ii) retributivism and desert (iii) retributivism and proportional punishment (iv) inflicting punishment (v) communicative retributivism (vi) the puzzle of retributivism.