Criminology Theories and Concepts

Professor Walker introduces criminology, focusing on classical crime theory, which emphasizes free will and responsibility. The theory suggests that people weigh pleasure against pain before committing crimes. Jeremy Bentham's hedonistic calculus and Cesare Beccaria's ideas on justice reform are discussed. The video concludes with neoclassical theory, which acknowledges exceptions to free will, such as insanity.

What is the primary focus of criminology as introduced in the video?

• Studying the history of crime

• Understanding the actions of criminals and the justice system

• Analyzing crime statistics

• Developing new laws

What is a key assumption of classical crime theory?

• Individuals have free will and are responsible for their actions

• Punishment should be avoided

• People are influenced by their environment

• Crime is a result of genetic factors

According to classical crime theory, what should the criminal justice system do?

• Ignore minor offenses

• Punish according to the crime committed

• Provide equal rewards for all

• Focus on rehabilitation

What does the hedonistic calculus involve?

• Assessing the effectiveness of punishment

• Measuring the impact of laws

• Calculating the cost of crime

• Balancing pleasure and pain in decision-making

Who is associated with the concept of utilitarianism in the context of crime?

• Cesare Beccaria

• Jeremy Bentham

• Sigmund Freud

• Karl Marx

What did Cesare Beccaria advocate for in his writings?

• Complex and detailed laws

• Simple and clear laws with public support

• Harsh punishments for all crimes

• A focus on rehabilitation over punishment

What was one of Beccaria's key beliefs about the justice system?

• It should eliminate favoritism and be equal for all

• It should focus on punishing offenders only

• It should be secretive and closed to the public

• It should be corrupt to maintain control

What is a limitation of classical crime theory mentioned in the video?

• It assumes all individuals have the same level of free will

• It does not consider the role of free will

• It focuses too much on rehabilitation

• It ignores the role of society in crime

What does neoclassical theory introduce to classical crime theory?

• An emphasis on economic factors

• A complete rejection of punishment

• Consideration of exceptions to free will

• A focus on genetic factors

Which of the following is an example of an exception to free will considered in neoclassical theory?

• Economic status

• Educational level

• Cultural background

• Criminal insanity