「報應論」抑或「功利論」？──荀子刑罰觀的哲學根據

Retributive Theory or Utilitarian Theory?— The Philosophical Foundation of Xunzi's Theory of Punishment

本文所欲探討的主題是荀子刑罰觀的哲學根據。理論上，正義是刑罰追求的最高目標，而關於刑罰的正義，報應論和功利論曾經是兩種爭論甚為激烈的主張。本文認為，荀子的刑罰觀既有報應論的意味，但更多的卻是一種功利論的主張，此一立場與荀子本人所處的時代背景及其所欲達成的目的之間具有密切的關係。

This essay attempts to inquire into the philosophical foundation of Xunzi's theory of punishment. Theoretically, the highest pursuit of punishment is justice, which has revolved around a long-standing debate between a theory of retribution versus a theory of utilitarian. For Xunzi, the theory of punishment on the one hand have the retributive implication, on the another hand, however, it should more prominently emphasize utilitarian perspctives, this stand which Xunzi hold is closed related to his own historical background and the intention of Xunzi's thought.