1. Evaluate the effectiveness of deterrence and rational choice theory. Both can
2. Classical school criminology relies heavily on the concept of free will. How can one ever demonstrate empirically the existence of a free will?
3. Certainty, severity, and celerity of punishment are all factors that are discussed in terms of deterrence. Deterrence would be a great source of punishment if it would work in most cases dealing with criminals. In the past people used horrible ways to punish criminals, ways that today would be extremely unconstitutional. Even with those harsh punishments, criminals did not stop committing crimes. This is still true today. The rational choice theory is the expansion of the concept of deterrence. It is closely related to the expected utility principle. This states that people will make rational decisions based on the extent to which they expect the choice to maximize their profits ot benefits and minimize the costs and losses (Akers & Sellers, 2013, p. 23). However, this theory, standing alone, does not prove to be very effective either. Most serious criminals don't think about how they will be punished if caught or what might happen when they commit the crime. Most live in the moment in hopes to fulfill their desired needs at that point in time. These two theories alone do not show great effectiveness standing alone but do show some success when combined.
4. Theorist who support the deterrence theory state people are rational individuals and pursue their own interests (Cullen & Agnew). They commit crimes that are to their advantage, and maximize their pleasure to minimize their pain. Studies performed to determine the effectiveness of deterrence. The results showed tentatively show the punishing people does not reduce their subsequent crime (Cullen & Agnew). There is different reasons thought as to way punishment does not act as a deterrence. Reasons such as, offenders are not always rational, also while in prison or jail they are associating with other delinquent peers and learn how to commit other crimes. A strong point of the rational theory is that is recognizes individuals are not fully rational, but that some individuals do account for loss and gain of the crimes (Cullen & Agnew). The rational theorists work more towards prevention efforts and aim to reduce sought after benefits while increasing the cost of the crime. Supports of the theory use tools such as steering wheel locks, and cameras at stop lights to catch people who run red lights. Records are showing that the efforts being made from the rational theory are successful.
5. Most people really don't understand the true cause and effect of crime. Most people also tend to form their opinions (if they have one) based on media information, family or friends.
(pick ten random people and ask them the following question)
"What do you think is the biggest contributing factor that causes violent crime?"
Then follow up with this question: "What do you think is the best solution for reducing violent crime?"
Be sure to tell them you are conducting the survey for your course. You don't need names but I would like you to report gender, race/ethnicity and approximate age. I would also ask that you end your paper with a paragraph or two on your reaction(s) to the responses you received. How does it compare to our discussions regarding people's perception of crime?