Which philosopher is known for his work "On Crime and Punishment"?

The philosopher known for the work "On Crime and Punishment" is Jeremy Bentham. This influential text reflects Bentham's utilitarian philosophy, which promotes the greatest happiness principle as a guiding concept in ethics and law. In his work, Bentham examines the function of punishment within society and advocates for a rational and systematic approach to penal reform, emphasizing the importance of proportionate punishment to the crime committed.

Bentham's ideas laid the foundation for modern criminology and influenced various legal reforms, particularly in the context of the justice system. He highlighted the need for laws and penalties that serve the public good and discourage criminal behavior through a clear understanding of the relationship between crime, punishment, and societal welfare. His approach contrasts with other philosophical views on crime and punishment, focusing on empirical evidence and rational analysis.

While Karl Marx, John Stuart Mill, and Friedrich Nietzsche contributed significantly to philosophy and social theory, it is Bentham who is specifically recognized for his seminal work addressing crime and punishment directly.