Purposivism is a legal theory that interprets laws based on the purpose or intent behind them. This approach emphasizes understanding the goals lawmakers aimed to achieve when creating a law, rather than focusing solely on the literal wording. By considering the broader context and objectives, purposivism seeks to ensure that legal interpretations align with the law's intended effects. This theory contrasts with strict textualism, which prioritizes the exact language of the law. Purposivism is often used in judicial decision-making, allowing judges to consider the social and historical context of laws, thereby promoting justice and fairness in legal outcomes.