What type of law is defined as a system that relies on punishments to enforce rules?

The correct choice is criminal law, which is defined as a system focused on laws that prohibit certain behaviors and impose punishments for violations. This legal framework is designed to maintain public order and safety by establishing what constitutes a crime—actions or omissions that are detrimental to society at large. When an offense is committed, criminal law provides the procedures for prosecution and the potential penalties, which can include imprisonment, fines, or community service, among others.

The other types of law mentioned serve different purposes. Civil law deals primarily with disputes between individuals or organizations and typically involves compensation or restitution rather than punishment. International law governs the relationships and agreements between countries, focusing on treaties and global governance. Administrative law deals with the rules and regulations that govern government agencies and their interactions with the public, emphasizing compliance rather than punitive measures. Thus, criminal law is unique in its reliance on penalties to enforce societal rules.