CMY3701
Assignment 1 Semester 1
Unique No: 351504
Due 8 April 2026
, SECTION A
Question 1.1: Critical Discussion of the Rational Choice Theory
Introduction
Rational Choice Theory is a classical criminological perspective that explains criminal
behaviour as the outcome of deliberate and reasoned decision-making. The theory
proposes that offenders are rational actors who weigh potential benefits against risks
and costs before committing a crime (Cornish & Clarke, 1986). Rather than focusing on
social background alone, the theory emphasises individual agency and situational
opportunity.
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
At the centre of Rational Choice Theory is the idea that individuals make calculated
choices. Offenders are assumed to consider:
1. Potential rewards such as money, revenge, status or emotional satisfaction.
2. Possible risks including arrest, punishment, or social stigma.
3. Effort required to commit the offence (Clarke, 1997).
For example, a person choosing to steal a mobile phone in a crowded taxi rank may
believe the reward outweighs the low perceived risk of being caught.
Bounded Rationality
Later developments introduced the idea of bounded rationality. This recognises that
decisions are not perfectly logical because individuals operate with limited information,
time and cognitive capacity (Simon, 1957). Offenders may make quick decisions based
on emotions or incomplete knowledge but still engage in some form of cost-benefit
reasoning.
Assignment 1 Semester 1
Unique No: 351504
Due 8 April 2026
, SECTION A
Question 1.1: Critical Discussion of the Rational Choice Theory
Introduction
Rational Choice Theory is a classical criminological perspective that explains criminal
behaviour as the outcome of deliberate and reasoned decision-making. The theory
proposes that offenders are rational actors who weigh potential benefits against risks
and costs before committing a crime (Cornish & Clarke, 1986). Rather than focusing on
social background alone, the theory emphasises individual agency and situational
opportunity.
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
At the centre of Rational Choice Theory is the idea that individuals make calculated
choices. Offenders are assumed to consider:
1. Potential rewards such as money, revenge, status or emotional satisfaction.
2. Possible risks including arrest, punishment, or social stigma.
3. Effort required to commit the offence (Clarke, 1997).
For example, a person choosing to steal a mobile phone in a crowded taxi rank may
believe the reward outweighs the low perceived risk of being caught.
Bounded Rationality
Later developments introduced the idea of bounded rationality. This recognises that
decisions are not perfectly logical because individuals operate with limited information,
time and cognitive capacity (Simon, 1957). Offenders may make quick decisions based
on emotions or incomplete knowledge but still engage in some form of cost-benefit
reasoning.
