12.2 Religion & Punishment (AQA GCSE Religious Studies A): Flashcards
Exam code: 8062
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Define retribution (aim of punishment).
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Define retribution (aim of punishment).
Retaliation — society gets its own back on the offender, imposing the same level of harm they caused; the least positive aim of punishment.
Define deterrence (aim of punishment).
Putting people off — seeing others punished severely may deter them from committing a crime, or deter the criminal from reoffending.
Define reformation (aim of punishment).
Change — giving offenders the chance to see their wrong and learn there are alternatives to crime (education, skills) so they become law-abiding.
Why do most Christians not take 'eye for eye' literally?
Jesus clarified it: 'do not resist an evil person... turn to them the other cheek' (Matthew 5:38-39) — so punishment should match, not exceed, the crime, and they prefer positive aims.
How do Muslims view retribution as a punishment?
They support it as long as it matches but does not exceed the offence — 'a life for a life, an eye for an eye' (Qur'an 5:44-47) — because Allah is a just God.
Define lex talionis.
The 'law of retaliation' — criminals receiving the same level of suffering they inflicted, which could allow the death penalty for murder.
Why are Christians against public punishment as a deterrent?
They believe all human life should be treated with respect and would not support punishment causing physical harm or removing basic human rights — though they support deterring crime in principle.
How does the Qur'an support punishment as deterrence?
'As to the thief... cut off his or her hands: a punishment by way of example, from God' (Qur'an 5:41) — some Muslim countries carry out punishments in public to deter others.
Why is reformation the preferred aim of punishment for Christians?
It reflects teaching about original sin — everyone has sinned and can repent and be saved; offenders should be given the opportunity to change.
How did Jesus set an example for reformation?
At his crucifixion he forgave the criminal dying next to him: 'Today you will be with me in paradise' (Luke 23:43).
Why do Muslims accept reformation as an aim of punishment?
Because Allah is forgiving and merciful — 'If anyone repents after his wrongdoing and makes amends, God will accept his repentance' (Qur'an 5:39), provided the person repents.
St Paul wrote: 'Do not be overcome by evil, but ______ evil with good' (Romans 12:19-21).
St Paul wrote: 'Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good' (Romans 12:19-21).
What is a fourth aim of punishment besides retribution, deterrence and reformation?
Protection — keeping criminals away from society so they cannot hurt others; both Christians and Muslims agree with protecting people.
True or False?
Reformation means an offender should not be punished at all.
False.
It means they should be given help to reform while they undergo their punishment, not escape punishment.
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