The first and oldest of the four justifications for punishment is retribution. Retribution is defined as… "An act of moral vengeance by which society makes the offender suffer [sic] as much as the suffering caused by the crime" (Macionis, J., 2006, p. 182). This type of justification for punishment has been in effect since the Middle Ages when crime was viewed as sin against God and society. Retribution was designed to satisfy humankind 's …show more content…
Capital punishment imposes justification for punishment with retribution in the form of a life for a life. Capital punishment is a very controversial issue because of its effects on society. Many believe that the death penalty serves as a deterrent to murderer; however, according to Nygard K. (1996) "… states with active capital punishment have a stable, higher rate of homicide than those without capital punishment. Nygard K. (1996) asserts that… Research revealed that homicide rates actually escalate after a criminal has been executed. Givens M. (1992) points out a noteworthy disadvantage to retribution… Capital punishment is irreversible and a person that has been wrongfully judged and put to death can not be brought back to