Most serious crimes require mens rea in addition to the criminal act. Explain why this is the case and how this relates to culpability. Additionally, mens rea is complex and it is difficult to determine just how much intent is necessary to convict someone of a crime. Describe the reasons why mens rea is so baffling
What will be an ideal response?
Mens rea is required because it is fair and just to punish only people we can blame. First, whatever it means, mens rea is difficult to discover and then prove in court. Second, courts and legislatures have used so many vague and incomplete definitions of the mental element. Third, mens rea consists of several mental attitudes that range across a broad spectrum, stretching all the way from purposely committing a crime you're totally aware is criminal to merely creating risks of criminal conduct or causing criminal harms—risks you're not the slightest bit aware you're creating. Fourth, a different mental attitude might apply to each of the elements of a crime.
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a. conflict b. rational choice c. anomie d. learning
In the context of the historical assumptions of juvenile justice, which of the following is the most basic belief in the traditional model (1899-1960s) of juvenile justice?
A. the idea that it is the state's right but not the state's duty to intervene in the lives of children B. the assumption that juveniles commit delinquent acts because they have made a rational choice to do so C. the assumption that due process is important and promotes rather than hinders treatment D. the belief that future delinquency can be prevented through negative punishment E. the idea that juveniles as a group do not possess the same criminal intent as adults
The material placed around the ignition device to feed and accelerate the initial flame in arson is referred to as a(n) ________.
A. accelerant B. plant C. pyro-enhancement device D. trailer
Which of the following statements is NOT true regarding male and female prison subcultures?
a. Men rarely form close personal relationships with prison staff, but many women chose to get close to and share information with their keepers. b. Men tend to segregate themselves by race; this is less true for women. c. Women's prison populations are divided in security levels for their safety, compared to men who serve time in facilities where the population is mixed. d. Women are more responsive to prison programs than men.