Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of rational choice theory. Cite some of the studies listed in the text
What will be an ideal response?
The answer should include the following points:
• Strengths: Rational choice theory—the delinquent or the criminal chooses to violate the law and has free will
• Paternoster: rational choice does not require complete information for behavior to occur
• Aniwar and Loughran: individuals update risk perceptions over time according to the feedback received during offending experiences
• Fagan and Piquero: crime rates are lower when punishment risks and costs increase
• Weakness: Robert Agnew's determinism theory
• Freedom of choice varies from one individual to another; dependency on one's biological, psychological, or social nature
• Assumes free will fails for individuals controlled by their emotions
• Compulsive arsonists, kleptomaniacs, or sex offenders
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Indicate whether the statement is true or false
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Fill in the blank(s) with correct word
Which judge performs virtually all tasks carried out by district court judges, except trying and sentencing felony defendants?
A. circuit justice B. magistrate judge C. appellate court judge D. administrative judge
A police officer has informed a man seated at a desk in his home that he is under arrest. The desk top is cluttered and the desk has many drawers within easy reach of the arrestee. One drawer is locked. As incident to the arrest, what may the officer search besides the man? a. not the desk
b. the top of the desk in plain sight but not the drawers of the desk. c. the desk top and the unlocked drawers of the desk. d. the desk top and all the drawers of the desk.