Utilitarianism has long been thought to violate the principle of retributive justice, the concept of being punished for crimes committed. Upon closer examination, it turns out that utilitarianism and retributive justice are not in conflict. According to Mill, the concept of justice actually derives from that of utility. When an individual's moral rights are violated, there is a natural tendency to want to take revenge against the transgressor. Retaliation ensures that such an act is not repeated. By protecting individuals from rights violations, punishment contributes to an overall increase in utility in society. In Utilitarianism, Mill writes that “a person may not need the benefits of others, but he always needs them not to harm him” (Mill 89). This protection allows individuals to pursue their goals more effectively, without fear, and ultimately with greater utility. At the same time, Mill also argues that there are some cases in which an individual has a moral duty to perform an action that would be considered unjust under normal circumstances; however, because the action dramatically increases utility, the action can be performed and does not violate the principle of retributive justice. An act that would be considered "wrong" in a normal situation may be "right" in other situations. One such example is the case of Robin Hood. Robin Hood is a fictional character who steals material goods and money from very wealthy individuals and redistributes them to the poorest. He is not punished for his crimes and is hailed as a hero for his actions. While Robin Hood's case might appear to violate the principle of retributive justice because he receives no punishment for his actions, upon closer examination, this... middle of paper... ritarism applies to acts that I am determined to being morally right based on an individual's internal motivations rather than on the act itself as opponents previously argued. Morally right acts do not violate the principle of retributive justice and therefore do not deserve punishment. For example, Robin Hood is not motivated by greed or corruption but is instead motivated by compassion. Desiring a more equal distribution of wealth, Robin Hood helps the most vulnerable people in society. He does not keep the wealth himself, but rather gives it away. It is his inner goodness and his altruism that prevent him from violating the principle of retributive justice. He does not deserve punishment because his motives were not immoral. Utilitarianism inspires Robin Hood as he strives to create a better world and a more prosperous society.