SOC222 Lecture Notes - Methodological Individualism, Cesare Beccaria, Theological Determinism
10 Apr 2013
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Document Summary
Some theorists believe youth engage in crime after weighing the cost/benefits of their actions. Means offenders are rational decision makers who have an awareness of the consequences of their actions. Decide because they believe they are more likely to benefit from the behaviour. The decision making process can be influenced if there is greater likelihood of being punished for the behaviour. Means the certainty of punishment will limit behaviour. Theological determinism applied equally to children & adults. Crime is a particular individual form of evil and moral wrong doing that is fed by personal choice. Causes of crime lie within the offender and not the environment. Individuals are motivated by self interest & free will and are personally responsible for their action s. The extent to which the person is seen as having committed the act. The extent to which the act appears voluntary. Principle of free will = crime is a matter of choice.
