Vedergällningsrättvisa

Vedergällningsrättvisa, often translated as retributive justice, is a philosophy of justice that argues that punishment is justified if and only if it is deserved. It is based on the idea that individuals who commit wrongful acts should be punished in proportion to the harm they have caused. This contrasts with utilitarian or consequentialist theories of justice, which focus on the future consequences of punishment, such as deterrence or rehabilitation.

The core principle of retributive justice is that wrongdoers should suffer in a way that is equivalent to the offense they committed. This does not necessarily mean "an eye for an eye," though that is a historical example of its application. Instead, it implies that the severity of the punishment should be commensurate with the severity of the crime. The purpose is not to achieve societal benefits but to satisfy a moral imperative that the guilty be punished and the innocent be left unharmed.

Proponents of retributive justice argue that it upholds moral order and respects the autonomy of individuals by acknowledging their responsibility for their actions. It emphasizes desert and proportionality, ensuring that justice is done for the sake of justice itself. Critics, however, may argue that it can be excessively focused on past wrongs and may not adequately consider the potential for reform or the broader societal impact of punitive measures. The concept is a foundational element in many legal and ethical systems worldwide.