Law A-Level
Retributivism and Just Deserts
What Retributivism and Just Deserts means in Law A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Retributivism and Just Deserts
The deontological justification for punishment based on the moral blameworthiness of the offender, asserting that the severity of the sanction must be proportionate to the gravity of the wrong committed.
Topics that use Retributivism and Just Deserts
- Criminal law (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Actus reus
- Appropriation
- Dishonesty
- Justification vs Excuse
- Legal Liberalism and Autonomy
- Legislative Reform
- Mens rea
- Public Policy and Consent
Using Retributivism and Just Deserts in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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