Question

Official statistics show that crime in the U.S. has decreased during the past two decades. Victor claims that modern neoclassical approaches to crime control are responsible for the decline. Which of the following statements is Victor most likely to make to support his claim?

A) "Harsh punishments have deterred potential offenders."
B) "Social programs have addressed root causes of criminal behavior."
C) "Labeling theory has reduced the stigma associated with crime."
D) "Biological factors are the main contributors to criminality."

Answer 1

Victor would likely say that "Harsh punishments have deterred potential offenders," supporting the idea that neoclassical approaches to crime control, emphasizing the costs of committing a crime, have contributed to a decrease in U.S. crime rates over the past decades.

Step-by-step explanation:

If Victor claims that modern neoclassical approaches to crime control are responsible for the decrease in crime, he is most likely to make the statement that "Harsh punishments have deterred potential offenders." This claim aligns with the neoclassical theory of crime, which suggests that the fear of harsh punishment can deter individuals from committing crimes. Neoclassical approaches focus on the individual's responsibility and rational decision-making, where potential criminals weigh the costs and benefits of their actions.

Studies and crime trends in the United States indicate that certain deterrence strategies, such as longer sentences for specific crimes, can have an impact on crime rates, though this effectiveness varies. For example, in some cases, the threat of increased sentences for gun crimes has been linked to a decreased incidence of such crimes. However, this is not a universal solution, and other factors like socioeconomic interventions, education, and improvements in neighborhood conditions have also played significant roles in crime reduction.