Rational Choice Theory in Criminal Law

Criminal Law
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Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Main Context...................................................................................................................................3
Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................6
References........................................................................................................................................7
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Introduction
Rational choice theory is a theory on which an individual can rely on for rational calculation to
achieve outcomes that are in line with their personal objectives. People can have great
satisfaction or benefit through these decisions as they can get available chooses that are in their
highest self-interest. It is being assumed by most of the mainstream academies that the theories
are based on rational choices. It is also being assumed by the rational choice theory that most of
the people try to minimize their advantage in any situation and at the same time also try to
minimize their losses. The theory also stipulates all complex social phenomena that are being
driven by the action of an individual (Bonger, 2016).
It has been found by an economist that having knowledge of rational decisions can help an
individual in understanding the behavior of society as a whole. There is also a misconception
about this theory that is attribution of selfishness to this theory. It is considered to be an idea that
is being acted by individuals in their self-interest and that is logical. An individual might
consider choosing to be charitable if it makes them feel better about themselves. Rational
theories are not a complex theory it is just about how we think crime is brought about. It might or
might not help in getting an accurate understanding of crime (Gates & Schmalleger, 2018). The
professional in the field of criminology justice identify the value of the theory by judging the
facts and where it fits in.
There are many theories that help in knowing that what the causes that makes people to commit
crime or to continue committing crime. Some of these theory states that people commit crime
because of their personality traits that make a person to commit a crime. It has been sated by
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