2. Aims of Punishment LO
To consider the aims of punishment and the use of imprisonment
Starter
“Eye for eye, tooth for tooth…” – What do you think this quote means and how does it link to punishment?

3. Aims of Punishment
It is widely believed that the punishment of crimes has six main aims
Protection (a security measure for society)
Retribution (showing that justice has been done)
Deterrence (a way of putting others off committing crime)
Reformation (a chance for a criminal to change)
Vindication (a way of ensuring the law is respected)
Reparation (a way for criminals to make up for what they have done)
Tasks:
Write out the aims of punishment with a brief example from British Law of each
Using the Christian teachings try to link them to each of the aims of punishment

4. Religious Responses…
Explain religious attitudes to the aims of punishment (use page 84 & 85 to help)

5. Religious Responses…
Christianity Most Christians do not support the idea of retribution but would support the other aims of punishment. Christians believe it is important to uphold the law and that the most important aim is for a criminal to reform – to help them become a law-abiding citizen.
Islam Muslims believe deterrence is the strongest aim of punishment. If severe punishments are put in place then less people are likely to commit a crime. Muslims hope all criminals will repent and that Allah will forgive them if they do so.

6. “Capital punishment is totally unacceptable in a civilised society
“Capital punishment is totally unacceptable in a civilised society.” (6 marks) Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer showing you have thought about more than one point of view. Refer to religious teachings.
Death Penalty – A Mistake?
Jeremy Irons - Amnesty International
Documentary