CMY3701
Assignment 1 Semester 1
Unique No: 351504
Due 8 April 2026
, SECTION A
1.1 Critically Discuss the Rational Choice Theory
The Rational Choice Theory is a classical criminological perspective that explains
criminal behaviour as the result of conscious, reasoned decision making. The theory
argues that offenders weigh the potential benefits of committing a crime against the
possible costs, such as arrest, punishment or social condemnation, and then choose
the option that appears most rewarding (Cornish & Clarke, 1986; Siegel, 2018).
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
At its foundation, the theory assumes that individuals are rational actors who seek to
maximise personal gain and minimise pain. Crime, therefore, is not viewed as purely
impulsive or pathological but as a calculated choice influenced by perceived
opportunities and risks (Becker, 1968).
For example, a person who decides to steal a smartphone in a crowded taxi rank may
do so after quickly judging that the owner is distracted and that escape is possible. The
decision is not random; it is based on a perceived low risk and high reward.
Another example can be drawn from the newspaper report where the offender attacked
her twin sister after a heated argument and then attempted to conceal the crime by
dismembering the body. Although emotionally driven, the act of fleeing the scene
suggests some level of calculated thinking aimed at avoiding detection. This aligns with
the idea that offenders make situational decisions even under stress.
Key Concepts in Rational Choice Theory
1. Cost–benefit analysis Offenders evaluate whether the expected benefits of crime
outweigh the potential costs. If the anticipated gain is high and the risk is perceived as
low, criminal behaviour becomes more likely (Cornish & Clarke, 1986).
For instance, organised criminals involved in fraud may carefully plan their actions
because the financial rewards are substantial and they believe the chances of being
caught are minimal.
Assignment 1 Semester 1
Unique No: 351504
Due 8 April 2026
, SECTION A
1.1 Critically Discuss the Rational Choice Theory
The Rational Choice Theory is a classical criminological perspective that explains
criminal behaviour as the result of conscious, reasoned decision making. The theory
argues that offenders weigh the potential benefits of committing a crime against the
possible costs, such as arrest, punishment or social condemnation, and then choose
the option that appears most rewarding (Cornish & Clarke, 1986; Siegel, 2018).
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
At its foundation, the theory assumes that individuals are rational actors who seek to
maximise personal gain and minimise pain. Crime, therefore, is not viewed as purely
impulsive or pathological but as a calculated choice influenced by perceived
opportunities and risks (Becker, 1968).
For example, a person who decides to steal a smartphone in a crowded taxi rank may
do so after quickly judging that the owner is distracted and that escape is possible. The
decision is not random; it is based on a perceived low risk and high reward.
Another example can be drawn from the newspaper report where the offender attacked
her twin sister after a heated argument and then attempted to conceal the crime by
dismembering the body. Although emotionally driven, the act of fleeing the scene
suggests some level of calculated thinking aimed at avoiding detection. This aligns with
the idea that offenders make situational decisions even under stress.
Key Concepts in Rational Choice Theory
1. Cost–benefit analysis Offenders evaluate whether the expected benefits of crime
outweigh the potential costs. If the anticipated gain is high and the risk is perceived as
low, criminal behaviour becomes more likely (Cornish & Clarke, 1986).
For instance, organised criminals involved in fraud may carefully plan their actions
because the financial rewards are substantial and they believe the chances of being
caught are minimal.
