Week 3: The criminal mind – Classicism and biological positivism

Question 1

According to Beccaria, which of the following was the aim of a good system of legislation?

The ability to make examples out of offenders.
The creation of a vast amount of laws.
The harsh punishment of offenders.
The prevention of crime.

Answer 1

The prevention of crime

Question 2

When a system is run on the basis of the greatest good for the greatest number, this is referred to as:

conflict theory
positivism
utilitarianism
functionalism

Answer 2

Utilitarianism

Question 3

According to Beccaria, what are the three elements of punishment and crime prevention?

swift, decisive and spectacular
swift, certain and proportionate
swift, severe and proportionate
rational, certain and severe

Answer 3

Swift, certain and proportionate
(Beccaria believed punishment should serve to protect the social order and deter criminality by being: swift, certain and proportionate).

Question 4

Paige burglarised a home and stole a television and jewelry. According to Garofalo, Paige lacks:

probity
power
pity
perception

Answer 4

Probity (Paige lacks probity, meaning she lacks respect for the property rights of others).