Discuss the impact that Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham had on the development of rational choice theory
What will be an ideal response?
The answer should include the following points:
- rational choice theory—an extension of the deterrence doctrine found in the classical school
- individuals’ rational calculations of payoffs and costs before committing delinquent and criminal acts
Cesare Beccaria—impact on the development of rational choice theory
- legitimacy of criminal sanctions on the social contract
- view on punishment—necessary evil—public, immediate, and necessary; the least possible in the case given; proportioned to the crime; determined by the laws
- 1764—On Crimes and Punishments
- the purpose and consequences of punishment
Jeremy Bentham—impact on the development of rational choice theory
- punishment would deter criminal behavior, provided it was made appropriate to the crime
- 1780—An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation
- four objectives of punishment—prevent all offenses if possible; persuade a person who has decided to offend to commit a less rather than a more serious offense; dispose to do no more mischief; prevent crime at as cheap a cost to society
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Indicate whether the statement is true or false
Congress passed the Juvenile Justice and Delinquent Prevention Act in 1974, which ______.
a. allowed the juvenile court hearings to be informal b. reduced violent crime arrest rates for juveniles c. provided for more accountability of juveniles d. provided funds to states to improve the protection of juveniles in the system.