Criminal Justice Practice Exam

Which of the following theories assumes that crime is committed by free-willed individuals who are motivated by a hedonistic rationality?

1. Anomie theory

2. Chicago school theory

3. Classical theory

4. Humanistic psychological theory

The correct answer is: Classical theory

The classical theory of criminology is rooted in the belief that individuals engage in criminal behavior out of free will and rational calculation. This theory posits that people weigh the potential benefits of a crime against the risks of being caught and punished. The notion of hedonistic rationality suggests that individuals are motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. Thus, if someone perceives that the pleasure gained from committing a crime outweighs the potential consequences, they may choose to commit that crime. Classical theory emerged during the Enlightenment period, challenging the previously held views that crime was due to forces beyond an individual's control, such as demonic possession or societal influences. Instead, it focuses on the choice and decision-making processes of the offender, emphasizing the need for a just legal system that deters crime through appropriate punishment. In contrast, other theories such as anomie theory emphasize social structures and their influence on behavior, suggesting that disconnects in societal expectations contribute to criminal behavior. The Chicago school theory focuses on environmental factors and social disorganization as key contributors to crime, while humanistic psychological theory centers around individual psychological motivations and personal growth rather than a rational choice model.