Question 1: (150 words)
Do you believe rational people choose to commit crimes or are there other intervening factors beyond the individual’s control? Which school of criminology does your position align with: Classical, Neoclassical, or Positive? Explain your response.
Question 2: Respond to the following statement: (150 words)
Statement: “In my opinion, I believe rational people choose to commit crimes. I understand that there are other intervening factors beyond the individual’s control, but it all narrows down to a rational choice. Basically, a rational person is a sensible person who relies on intelligent thinking to make decisions rather than relying on emotions. For example, what differentiates a rational parent from other parents? If a child kills another child, a father can either report the incident or try to cover it up. A rational father would look at the risks, rewards and impacts of either option before deciding on what to do. This is why I believe that most crimes are committed by rational people, and they choose to do so. My position aligns with the neoclassical theory of criminology which argues that “people will make a rational choice to commit crime.” For example, thieves often break into homes after determining that their action has a low risk, high reward and low likelihood of severe punishment.”