Which of the following serves, in theory, to prevent crime by physically preventing an offender from repeating criminal actions?

Answer

Specific deterrence

lex talionis

Disablement (or incapacitation)

Retribution

The correct answer is Disablement (or incapacitation). This concept aims to prevent crime by physically preventing an offender from repeating criminal actions. To understand this, let's break down the options and how to find the answer.

1. Specific deterrence: Specific deterrence refers to punishment or consequences intended to deter an individual offender from committing future crimes. This does not physically prevent the offender from repeating criminal actions.

2. Lex talionis: Lex talionis, often referred to as "an eye for an eye," is a principle of retributive justice where punishment is based on retaliation in proportion to the offense. It does not focus on physically preventing the offender from repeating criminal actions.

3. Disablement (or incapacitation): Disablement, also known as incapacitation, involves physically preventing an offender from committing further crimes. This can be achieved through imprisonment, house arrest, or other means that limit the offender's ability to engage in criminal activities.

4. Retribution: Retribution refers to the act of punishing someone as a form of revenge or moral retribution for their criminal actions. While punishment can serve as a deterrent, it does not necessarily physically prevent an offender from repeating criminal actions.

To answer this question, we need to identify the option that focuses on physically preventing an offender from repeating criminal actions. Therefore, the correct answer is "Disablement (or incapacitation)."