Question 1

"Theory" is best described as ______.

Accepted Answer

Theories are frameworks for understanding how various concepts are related and how those relationships can explain phenomena. In the context of criminology, theories don't necessarily provide a single key to explain all behavior but are useful for making sense of patterns and seemingly random facts by placing them within a coherent explanatory structure.

Question 2

The view that criminal behavior is ultimately driven by supernatural forces is known as ______.

Accepted Answer

Demonology is the study of demons or beliefs about demons, particularly the belief that one's actions are controlled by supernatural forces, including demons. In historical contexts, it was often thought that criminal behavior could be attributed to demonic possession or influence.

Question 3

"Women accused of witchcraft were tied up and thrown in the water. If they survived, they were innocent." This type of practice is known as ______.

Accepted Answer

This practice is known as "trial by ordeal," where the accused was subjected to a dangerous or painful test under the belief that divine intervention would reveal their innocence or guilt.

Question 4

The earliest theories of crime causation were ______.

Accepted Answer

The earliest theories of crime causation were demonological, attributing criminal behavior to demonic possession or influence, reflecting the spiritual and supernatural beliefs of ancient societies.

Question 5

Demonological theory represents theological explanations of reality, in which the criminal was viewed as a(n) ______.

Accepted Answer

Demonological theory, which was prevalent in the Middle Ages, posits that criminal behavior is the result of supernatural influences. Individuals who engaged in such behavior were often viewed as sinners under the influence of demonic forces, rather than as witches, heretics, or undergoing an ordeal.

Question 6

According to demonological theory, which of the following were viewed as manifestations of basically evil human nature reflecting either allegiance to the "Prince of Darkness" or an expression of divine wrath?

Accepted Answer

Demonological theory, which was prevalent in medieval Europe, posited that criminal behavior was a result of supernatural influences. Felonies, being serious crimes, were often viewed through this lens as manifestations of evil, either as a sign of allegiance to demonic forces or as an expression of divine punishment for sinfulness. Lesser offenses like misdemeanors, infractions, and status offenses were not typically interpreted in this context.

Question 7

Before the formulation and acceptance of the ______ theory, the administration of criminal justice in Europe was cruel, uncertain, and unpredictable.

Accepted Answer

The classical theory, developed in the 18th century by thinkers like Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham, emphasized rationality, free will, and the proportionality of punishment. It marked a significant shift from the previously arbitrary and often brutal systems of justice, advocating for a more systematic and humane approach to criminal punishment.

Question 8

An approach that emphasizes free will and rationality on the part of the criminal actor is referred to as ______.

Accepted Answer

The classical approach to criminology emphasizes free will and rationality, suggesting that individuals choose to commit crimes after weighing the benefits and consequences.

Question 9

Penal policy was once designed to control individuals that were ______.

Accepted Answer

Penal policy was historically designed to control individuals who were unemployed, as unemployment was often associated with higher rates of poverty and crime, leading authorities to target these individuals in efforts to maintain social order.

Question 10

All of the following are considered principles proposed by Beccaria except the one where______.

Accepted Answer

Cesare Beccaria, in his work "On Crimes and Punishments," argued for a rational and just approach to criminal justice, emphasizing the importance of laws being public, clear, and established by a legislature (not executives), the impartial role of judges, equality before the law, and that punishments should be no more severe than necessary to deter crime. Thus, the principle that laws should be made by executives is not one proposed by Beccaria.

Question 11

According to Beccaria, punishment should be all of the following except ______.

Accepted Answer

Beccaria argued that punishment should be sure, swift, and certain to deter crime effectively, but he was against cruel punishments, advocating for the humane treatment of criminals.

Question 12

Which of the following was Beccaria interested in reforming?

Accepted Answer

Beccaria was particularly interested in reforming the cruel and unnecessary nature of punishment, advocating for more humane and just treatments in his seminal work, "On Crimes and Punishments."

Question 13

Jeremy Bentham advocated for "the greatest happiness shared by the greatest number." The term that refers to this approach is ______.

Accepted Answer

Jeremy Bentham is best known for founding the philosophy of utilitarianism, which advocates for actions that maximize happiness and well-being for the majority of a population.

Question 14

Jeremy Bentham saw the purpose of punishment to be ______.

Accepted Answer

Jeremy Bentham, a philosopher and jurist, is best known for his work in utilitarianism and his views on legal reform. He believed the purpose of punishment should primarily serve as a deterrent to prevent future crimes, rather than for retribution or solely for the sake of severity. Bentham's focus was on the consequences of actions and how they affect the greatest happiness for the greatest number, thus emphasizing deterrence to reduce future harm.

Question 15

All of the following are characteristics of Bentham's panopticon except ______.

Accepted Answer

Bentham's panopticon is characterized by its circular design and central observation tower, but not by a lack of showers and bathrooms.

Question 16

The basic principles of the modern Western judicial and legal system are found in the ______.

Accepted Answer

The classical school of criminology, founded in the 18th century by thinkers like Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham, emphasizes the importance of legal rights, due process, and the idea that individuals have free will and make rational choices. These principles are foundational to the modern Western judicial and legal system, advocating for proportionate punishments and the rule of law.

Question 17

The characteristics of Western criminal law include all of the following except ______.

Accepted Answer

Certainty is not typically listed as a characteristic of Western criminal law, which usually includes politicality, uniformity, and specificity.

Question 18

Which of the following amendments is considered a Beccarian legacy?

Accepted Answer

The Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, reflects Cesare Beccaria's influence on criminal justice reform and the importance of humane treatment in the legal system, aligning with his advocacy against torture and capital punishment.

Question 19

Which of the following would an adherent of the neoclassical school propose?

Accepted Answer

Neoclassical school proponents focus on the importance of individual responsibility and the deterrent effect of punishment, thus supporting policies like mandatory sentencing to discourage crime.

Question 20

Which of the following theories admits environmental, psychological, and other mitigating circumstances as modifying conditions to classic doctrine?

Accepted Answer

The neoclassical theory modifies the classical doctrine by considering environmental, psychological, and other mitigating circumstances that can influence human behavior.

Quiz 5: Early and Classical Criminological Theories