Early and Classical Criminological Theories
Theory
Demonological
Definition
Assumes supernatural forces are the cause of
criminal behavior
Major Theorists
Traditional
authority
Classical Theory
Criminal as rational hedonistic, free actor
Beccaria,
Bentham
Jeremy Bentham
Hedonism
Pleasure seeking philosophy.
Neoclassical Theory
Incapacitation, punishment, deterrence
Rational Choice
Deterrence
Ecological Theory
Offenders weigh the opportunities, cost, and
benefit of particular crimes
Refers to the belief that perceived punishment
will serve as a warning. If the pain outweighs
any pleasure to be derived from from the
criminal act, then the crime will be prevented.
Wilson, Becker
Comish and
Clarks
Beccaria
Views inequality and capitalism as the causes of Guerry and Quelet
crime.
Scenario: Jayden
Jayden is a high school junior who has recently been trying new activities. What started with
smoking pot,
has since turned into trying other drugs with new friends he met at school. Though
Jayden has been
taught about the dangers of drug use, he likes the way that drugs make him
Feel and
continues to experiment with various substances, always seeking pleasure. In 1-2
sentences, answer the
following questions:
1. Which theory best describes Jayden's pleasure-seeking behavior?