In the context of criminal justice, which term describes the belief that individuals possess free will and are accountable for their actions?

The term that describes the belief that individuals possess free will and are accountable for their actions is intentionalism. This concept emphasizes the idea that people have the capacity to make choices and decisions freely, thereby holding them responsible for the consequences of those choices.

Intentionalism aligns with the philosophical perspective that moral responsibility is contingent on one's ability to act with intention and agency. In the context of criminal justice, this belief is crucial because it underpins the rationale for legal accountability and the justice system's focus on the intentions behind an individual's actions rather than merely the actions themselves.

Determinism, on the other hand, posits that individuals' actions are determined by factors beyond their control (such as genetics, environment, or social circumstances), which undermines the idea of free will and moral accountability. Therefore, intentionalism accurately captures the belief in personal agency and responsibility, making it the correct choice in this context.