''Utu'' is a
Māori concept of reciprocation or balance.
To retain ''
mana'', both friendly and unfriendly actions require an appropriate response; that is, ''utu'' covers both the reciprocation of kind deeds,
and the seeking of revenge.
''Utu'' is one of the key principles of the constitutional tradition of Māori along with ''whanaungatanga'' (the centrality of relationships)'', mana'' and ''
tapu/noa'' (the recognition of the spiritual dimension)''.'' Along with equivalent traditions in other Indigenous communities, it has also been cited as an influence in attempts to introduce
restorative justice
Restorative justice is a community-based approach to justice that aims to repair the harm done to victims, offenders and communities. In doing so, restorative justice practitioners work to ensure that offenders take responsibility for their ac ...
into the criminal justice systems both in New Zealand and elsewhere.
''Utu'' can also be used about monetary repayments, paying or repaying.
Cultural references
*
''Utu'', a 1983 New Zealand film loosely based on events from
Te Kooti's War
"Amazon's "one-click" patent reconsidered"- a modern example of the term's use within New Zealand society
See also
*
Restorative justice
Restorative justice is a community-based approach to justice that aims to repair the harm done to victims, offenders and communities. In doing so, restorative justice practitioners work to ensure that offenders take responsibility for their ac ...
References
External links
An exploration of utu as a legal concept
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Māori words and phrases
Māori society
Value (ethics)
Revenge