Final answer:
The three eras that have characterized the field of criminology over the past 100 years are the Classical era, the Positivist era, and the Sociological era. Each era brought different perspectives and approaches to the study of crime and punishment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Over the past 100 years, the field of criminology has been characterized by three eras: the Classical era, the Positivist era, and the Sociological era.
- The Classical era: This era, which spanned from the late 18th century to the early 20th century, focused on the idea of free will and rational choice. It was influenced by thinkers like Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham, who believed that individuals choose to engage in criminal behavior based on weighing the potential benefits and costs of their actions. Punishment in this era aimed to deter individuals from committing crimes.
- The Positivist era: This era, which emerged in the late 19th century, shifted the focus from free will to the study of scientific explanations for crime. Positivist criminologists sought to identify the root causes of criminal behavior through empirical research and studied factors like biological, psychological, and sociological influences. Punishment in this era aimed to treat and rehabilitate offenders.
- The Sociological era: This era emerged in the early 20th century and emphasized the social and structural factors that contribute to crime. Sociological criminologists focused on understanding how societal factors such as poverty, inequality, and social disorganization affect crime rates. They believed that addressing these social factors is crucial in preventing and reducing crime. Punishment in this era aimed to address the underlying social issues that contribute to criminal behavior.