Understanding the Causes of Crime: Exploring Theories and Solutions - Essay Sample

Introduction

In our modern world, stories of criminal activities are widespread. However, the problem has existed for as long as men can remember. The number of crimes has been increasing in recent times, and one can only wonder, what makes people commit crimes? Why do we have high crime rates despite the death penalties? What should we do reduce the crime rates? Perhaps the solution to this social menace is understanding the causes of crime. Comparing and contrasting several theories that explain the reasons for crime will help us understand how to stop crime and identify the approach that seems superior as the cause of evil.

Is your time best spent reading someone else’s essay? Get a 100% original essay FROM A CERTIFIED WRITER!

Save 25%

One of the theories that explain the reason why people commit crimes is Biological Positivists theory. Positivists believe that criminality is genetically inherited and the criminal gene can be passed from parents to children just like the physical appearances. Also, some positivists believe that criminals can be known by their physical features such as long ears or sloping foreheads. The shape of the skull is also a determinant, according to the positivists. The theory goes against the Rational Choice theory which suggests that man is a rational being hence a crime is a product of a sensible choice after weighing on the gains and consequences of their activities (Vito & Maahs, 2015). The theory, however, agrees with the Feminist perspective, suggesting that one does not have the power to choose to be a criminal, just like one cannot decide to be born a man.

The Feminist theory suggests that crimes are mostly done by men, as the records show. The perspective pays attention to violence against women inflicted by men and gender regulations, stating what particular gender should or should not do. Maleness is generally accepted as being in a dominating position in gender relations. The theory goes against the Rational Choice theory by suggesting that one is likely to perform a particular crime because of their male gender. Also, it differs with the Left Realism theory, which states that crime is usually related to certain social groups such as the homeless and the disadvantaged (Vito & Maahs, 2015).

Also, the Rational Choice theory suggests that man is a moral creature with free will. Men can, therefore, choose between the wrong and the right thing. When a man decides to do an act, it is assumed that the person made a conscious and rational decision after carefully considering the actions. A person, therefore, chooses to perform a crime, not because of the external factors, but rather a sensible choice. Unlike the feminist and the positivist, the Rational Choice theory shows that criminals are self-centered individuals whose only aim is to benefit themselves (Cornish & Clarke, 2014). However, the perspective goes against the Left Realism theory, which suggests that other factors, such as poverty affect crime, not an individual decision.

Left Realism

The most prevalent theory that explain crime causation is Left Realism theory. According to this theory, crime is associated with the disadvantaged members of society, such as the poor. When a specific group of people sees themselves as being unfairly treated, they may resort to crime. An individual determines and perceive the disadvantage and then perform criminal activities to be like other people. Marginalized groups, in terms of political economic and social levels, may commit crimes to be like other groups.

Moreover, the theory identifies that crime is a real problem that needs to be handled. Also, the approach is seen as reliable because it recognizes that there are many causes of crimes. Some of them include the activities of the police. If the police harass people, making them feel helpless, they may perform crimes to feel better. The theory also provides the solution for the problem, unlike other approaches by varying the four points of the square of crime. Activities such as the police having effective policing and offenders exercising their free will and deciding not to do any crimes could reduce the crime rate. The realist proposes police reforms and free and equal society. Such police department reforms were introduced in the UK in 2012.

Conclusion

Due to the increasing number of crimes, identifying a solution to reduce them is essential. Several theories such as the Rational Choice theory, the Feminine perspective, and the Biological Positivists have been advanced to explain crime causation. However, the most dominant approach is the Left Realism theory. The theory identifies many causes of crimes and their solutions. People need to understand that reducing crime levels is essential for the prosperity of any community.

References

Cornish, D. B., & Clarke, R. V. (Eds.). (2014). The reasoning criminal: Rational choice perspectives on offending. Transaction Publishers.

Lea, J. (2016). Left Realism: A radical criminology for the current crisis. International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy, 5(3), 53-65, https://www.crimejusticejournal.com/article/view/816

Vito, G. F., & Maahs, J. R. (2015). Criminology. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.