In the study of the institution of punishment, the concept of "retribution" emerges in different places. On the one hand, punishment is defined as retribution for the preceding action of the punished person, which is disapproved of by the punisher. On the other hand, retribution is discussed in the context of the debate on the meaning and purpose of punishment, with regard to the so-called "theories of retribution", according to which punishment only operates as a compensation for the guilt manifested in the crime.