Sociology 220
Theories of Crime and Delinquency Midterm Exam
Answer all the following questions with complete, edited answers. See the syllabus for deadline and post your answers on D2L in the Submissions folder. In addition, bring a print copy to me in class.
Questions:
1. Explain the Classical, Neo-Classical, and Rational Choice
Theories of Crime.
What changes were implemented on these theories from
the first to the second and third?
2. Explain how the policy of three strikes and out is related to Rational Choice Theory. Similarly, how is Routine Activities Theory connected to the broken windows policy?
3.Explain what the Positive Theories of Criminology are in general and how these theories are different from the Rational Choice, Neo-Classical, and Classical Theories.
4.What is Cesare Lombroso’s Theory of Atavism and Stigmata? Why is this theory considered one of the first intents for a scientific theory of crime? Why was it found wrong? How was this theory connected to eugenics and fascism?
5.Explain the Criminological Theories based on physiological/biological variables: 5.1) William Sheldon’s Theory of Somatotyping; 5.2) The Cytogenetic and Chemical Studies based on genetics and neurotransmitters; and 5.3) The studies based on problems related to the Central and Autonomic Nervous Systems activity. What policies to avoid/reduce crime are suggested by these theories?
Question
1: Classical, Neo-Classical and Rational Choice Theories of Crime;The classical
theory outlines that crime is a free-will decision where a criminal makes a personal
choice. The person may decide to implement the action for pleasure or due to
the pressures of life. Crime is a severe offence, and no one does it by force.
The individuals make up their minds to accomplish malicious activities.
However, someone might choose due to hardships of life; they have to make up
their minds before taking any action. Free will is the critical factor in
classical theory that shows the process that leads to crime (Tibbetts & Hemmens, 2019).