Rational choice theory

Many researchers have developed theories to seek out and explain why individuals continue to commit crime, where as, others completely desist from crime altogether. One of the most prominent and relevant theories to explain criminal behavior is known as the rational choice theory, which was first introduce by Cesare Beccaria in the late eighteenth century. Gabor et al., (1987) claimed that rational choice theory is, “…Found on the assumption that offenders are more or less rational in their decision making and seek to benefit themselves by their criminal activity (As cited in Morrison and O’Donnell, 1996). This theory asserts that these individuals are goal oriented and self interested, therefore, if the benefits of the crime outweigh the…

The theory of Rational Choice emerged during the year 1200-1400 from Italian criminologist, jurist, philosopher, and politician Cesare Beccaria. The theory of Rational Choice assumes that all criminals and crimes are rationalize when they are committed. It states that people choose to commit crimes after weighing the costs and benefits such as the consequences of their actions; whether their choice brings them pleasure and reduce pain. (Akers L.) For example, in recent U.S. history, James…

8.Explanations 8.1. Rational Choice Theory Rational choice theory presumes that individuals make logical decisions from the choices available to them, which provides the greatest satisfaction and which are in their interest (Haycraft, 2013:13). Furthermore, rational choice theory assumes that an offender carries out a crime by evaluating what can be earned through committing the crime (Haycraft, 3013:13). Haycraft (2013:12) states that an individual might decide to commit a crime because the…

Historical Background Rational choice theory really started developing during the eighteenth century. Before this, especially during the Middle Ages, a fear of satanic possession, or control from a higher power, really dominated thinking (Siegel, 2016). Those who were believed to be witches or possessed were burned at the stake, and their offspring was even considered to have inferior blood (Siegel, 2016). This thinking didn’t really start dying out until the Renaissance period, when new ideas…

result. The Rational Choice Theory perspective as presented by Cornish and Clark (1985) is based upon three concepts; (one) criminal offenders are rational and make choices and decisions that benefit themselves; (two) a crime- specific focus is required; and (three) there is a distinction between choices related to criminal involvement and decisions related to criminal events. The theory of rational choice theory examines offender decision making and the factors that affect it such as…

In 1992, the Canadian Newfoundland Cod fishery collapsed which resulted in up to 40,000 people being put out of work. The area was once known for its highly populated waters but was soon devastated by overfishing by both the community and fishing industries. Economists have tried to theory in particular was more significant than the rest. The rational choice theory may provide an answer as to why the disaster ensued. The rational choice theory is a key aspect of social sciences and it is viewed…

What are the key elements of Rational Choice Theory? • Beeson and Firth (1998) ‘Neoliberalism as a political rationality: Australian public policy since the 1980’s’, Journal of Sociology, Vol 34. Pp 215-231 In Beeson and Firth’s article, I gain a further insight into the conception of liberalism and the implementation of rational choice theory, specifically focusing on economic gain and wealth. The authors thoroughly researched the introduction of liberalism in the 1900’s and the resurgence…

such as Bentham and Beccaria revised the theory of rational choice theory within the 17th century which saw the history of the European movement, the Enlightenment, which was heavily influenced by these thinkers. The enlightenment entailed of the conception of reason and rationality when discussing such things as criminality or even religion. Beccaria was specifically known as a criminologist due to his large input into rational theory and deterrence. The act of rational theory suggests…

A theory that supports the actions of white collar crime is rational choice theory. “In rational choice theories, individuals are seen as motivated by the wants or goals that express their ‘preferences’”(Browning et. al, 2000). People in the everyday world are consumed by decisions daily from small things like deciding on dinner to major long term decisions such as last will and testimony. Based on the situation of the individual in particular decisions will vary. According to Browning and…

for the reward that the offender will get. Many theorists and sociologists say that people have the free will to do what they want and say what they want. However, criminals see crime as a promise to have a huge payoff. Individuals make choices everyday based on what the reward will be and what the consequence are. But for an offender/criminal the reward is much greater than the consequence and/or punishment. Their choice is called the Rational Choice Theory. They rationalize that the…