Discuss In Detail The Two Primary Historical Schools Of Thou

Discuss In Detail The Two Primary Historical Schools Of Thought Pre

Discuss in detail the two primary historical schools of thought presented in this week's lesson pertaining to criminology i.e., the classical and positivist schools of criminology. No direct quotes should be utilized in the response.

Discuss in detail subcultural theory as it relates to delinquency and crime. Briefly without using quotes give an overview of this article i.e., Nwalozie, C. J. (2015). Rethinking subculture and subcultural theory in the study of youth crime - A theoretical discourse. Journal of Theoretical & Philosophical Criminology, 7 (1), 1-16.

Paper For Above instruction

Criminology is a complex discipline that has evolved through various schools of thought, each offering different perspectives on the causes, nature, and control of criminal behavior. Among these, the classical and positivist schools are foundational, shaping much of the modern understanding of crime and justice. Additionally, subcultural theory provides a nuanced view of youth delinquency and its sociocultural roots, emphasizing the importance of peer groups and cultural environments in shaping deviant behavior.

The Classical School of Criminology

The classical school emerged in the 18th century during the Age of Enlightenment, emphasizing rationality, free will, and individual responsibility. Thinkers like Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham argued that humans are rational actors who weigh the costs and benefits before engaging in criminal acts. This perspective advocates for laws and punishments that are proportionate, certain, and swift, aiming to deter individuals from committing crimes through the threat of punishment. The core idea is that a rational calculation of potential gains versus potential penalties influences criminal behavior, making punishment an effective deterrent. By establishing clear laws and fair punishments, the classical school promotes justice while emphasizing the importance of individual accountability for criminal acts.

The Positivist School of Criminology

The positivist school took a scientific and empirical approach to understanding crime, emerging primarily in the 19th century. Unlike the classical school, which emphasizes free will, positivism focuses on the idea that criminal behavior is influenced by factors beyond an individual’s conscious control. Such factors include biological, psychological, and social influences. Positivist criminologists like Cesare Lombroso argued that certain physical and mental traits could predispose individuals to criminality, suggesting that crime has roots in biological and environmental conditions. This school advocates for treatment and rehabilitation, emphasizing that understanding the underlying causes of criminal behavior is essential for effective intervention. The positivist approach led to the development of various methods to study criminal populations empirically and to intervention strategies targeting the root causes rather than solely punishing offenders.

Subcultural Theory and Its Relation to Delinquency and Crime

Subcultural theory posits that delinquency and crime can be understood through the lens of group behavior within specific social or cultural environments. It suggests that certain groups, especially marginalized or disadvantaged youth, develop their own values, norms, and rules that often conflict with mainstream society. These subcultures may emerge as a response to social strain, economic deprivation, or structural disorganization. The values within these subcultures may endorse behaviors that are considered deviant or criminal by broader society, thus fostering delinquent acts. For example, within some youth subcultures, traits such as toughness, defiance, and loyalty may be highly valued, encouraging criminal activities that serve to reinforce members’ identities and group cohesion. Overall, subcultural theory emphasizes the significance of peer influence and cultural environment in explaining why certain groups engage in delinquency and crime.

Overview of Nwalozie’s (2015) Article

In the article by Nwalozie (2015), the author critically examines traditional perspectives on subcultural and subcultural theories in the context of youth crime. The paper challenges the conventional views that often portray subcultures as inherently deviant or criminal, proposing a reevaluation of their role in understanding youth behavior. Nwalozie argues that subcultures serve as a form of resistance or adaptation to societal pressures and marginalization rather than solely sources of deviance. The article emphasizes a nuanced approach that considers cultural, social, and economic factors influencing youth involvement in delinquency. It advocates for a broader theoretical framework that incorporates modern sociological insights, helping to better understand the complex relationship between youth subcultures and criminal activity.

References

• Beccaria, C. (1764). On Crimes and Punishments. Trans. Henry Paolucci.
• Bentham, J. (1789). An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation.
• Lombroso, C. (1876). Criminal Man.
• Miller, J. (1958). Lower Class Culture as a Generating Environment of Gang Behavior. Journal of Social Issues, 14(1), 5-19.
• Cloward, R., & Ohlin, L. (1960). Delinquency and Opportunity: A Theory of Legitimate and Illegitimate Opportunity Structures.
• Agnew, R. (2006). Juvenile Delinquency: Causes and Control.
• Nwalozie, C. J. (2015). Rethinking subculture and subcultural theory in the study of youth crime - A theoretical discourse. Journal of Theoretical & Philosophical Criminology, 7(1), 1-16.
• Hirschi, T. (1969). Causes of Delinquency.
• Sutherland, E. H. (1947). Principles of Criminology.
• Hagan, J. (2017). Crime and Society: Readings in Crime and Deviance.