THE THEORY OF RETRIBUTIVE PUNISHMENT

This article examines the concept and distinctive features of criminal punishment theories and analyzes the views of various scholars in this field. In order to better understand the essence of punishment theories, the article analyzes the historical development of punishment, its purposes, and the main theoretical approaches regarding its impact on the offender. Furthermore, based on these approaches, the study clarifies the nature and objectives of punishment, as well as the essence of other criminal-law measures that are not considered punishment but serve as alternative legal responses within modern criminal legislation. The article also expresses opinions regarding the problems of their practical application.