[2026] PTE Academic Reading - Multiple Choice, Single Answer

The traditional criminal justice system is fundamentally predicated on retributive principles, where the primary objective is the proportional punishment of the offender. While this model provides a clear legal framework, it frequently marginalizes the victims, reducing their experience to mere evidence in a state-led prosecution. In contrast, restorative justice offers a paradigm shift by viewing crime primarily as a violation of people and relationships rather than a breach of legal statutes. By facilitating mediated encounters between victims and offenders, this approach seeks to address the underlying harm and promote accountability through dialogue and reparation. Proponents highlight that such processes often lead to higher victim satisfaction and lower recidivism rates compared to conventional incarceration. However, skeptics raise concerns regarding the potential for re-traumatization and the risk of inconsistent outcomes that may undermine the principle of legal equality. Furthermore, the voluntary nature of restorative justice means it cannot entirely replace the retributive system, especially in cases involving extreme violence or unrepentant perpetrators. Ultimately, the value of restorative justice lies not in the total abolition of punishment, but in its capacity to humanize a system that has long prioritized procedural efficiency over genuine healing.