Week 4: Classical Thought: Beccaria and Bentham

Overview

This week we will start discussing the early theories in criminology. We will focus on Classical theory which emphasizes free will and rationality as the source of behavior. Hedonism and the “pleasure principle” fall within this theory.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this week, you will be able to:

Review the role of theory in criminology.
Explain the pleasure principle in understanding criminal behavior.
Identify the role of free will and rationality in explaining crime, according to the Classical Theory
Describe how Cesare Beccaria’s work influenced criminal justice systems throughout the world, and discuss the concepts and propositions recommended in his book.
Identify the connection between early criminological theories and crime policy.

Workflow

Reading:

Chapter 10 in The Handbook of the History and Philosophy of Criminology, edited by Ruth Ann Triplett, John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, 2018. ProQuest Ebook Central. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/bmcc/reader.action?docID=5144712&ppg=223

Download the chapter here.

The_Handbook_of_the_History_and_Philosophy_of_Crim…_-_Part_I_Key_Ideas_Thinkers_and_Moments