CMY3701
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO. 351504
DUE DATE: 8 APRIL 2026
, The Explanation of Crime - CMY3701
SECTION A
1.1 Critical Evaluation of Rational Choice Theory
Rational Choice Theory (RCT) was formally developed in criminology by Lawrence E.
Cohen and Marcus Felson (1979) and later expanded by Derek B. Cornish and Ronald
V. Clarke (1986). The theory draws from classical criminology, particularly the utilitarian
philosophy of Beccaria and Bentham, and assumes that individuals are rational actors
who make decisions based on calculated assessments of costs and benefits.
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
Rational Choice Theory rests on three central assumptions:
1. Crime is purposive and goal-oriented.
Offenders commit crime to achieve specific benefits such as financial gain,
excitement, revenge, or status (Cornish & Clarke, 1986).
2. Offenders are rational decision-makers.
Individuals weigh the potential rewards of crime against the risks of apprehension
and punishment (Cohen & Felson, 1979).
3. Crime is opportunity-dependent.
Crime occurs when a motivated offender encounters a suitable target in the
absence of capable guardians (Cohen & Felson, 1979).
Cohen and Felson (1979) argue that crime patterns change according to shifts in
everyday routine activities. For example, increased workforce participation and urban
mobility altered guardianship patterns in the United States, contributing to rising
property crime rates in the 1960s and 1970s.
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO. 351504
DUE DATE: 8 APRIL 2026
, The Explanation of Crime - CMY3701
SECTION A
1.1 Critical Evaluation of Rational Choice Theory
Rational Choice Theory (RCT) was formally developed in criminology by Lawrence E.
Cohen and Marcus Felson (1979) and later expanded by Derek B. Cornish and Ronald
V. Clarke (1986). The theory draws from classical criminology, particularly the utilitarian
philosophy of Beccaria and Bentham, and assumes that individuals are rational actors
who make decisions based on calculated assessments of costs and benefits.
Core Assumptions of Rational Choice Theory
Rational Choice Theory rests on three central assumptions:
1. Crime is purposive and goal-oriented.
Offenders commit crime to achieve specific benefits such as financial gain,
excitement, revenge, or status (Cornish & Clarke, 1986).
2. Offenders are rational decision-makers.
Individuals weigh the potential rewards of crime against the risks of apprehension
and punishment (Cohen & Felson, 1979).
3. Crime is opportunity-dependent.
Crime occurs when a motivated offender encounters a suitable target in the
absence of capable guardians (Cohen & Felson, 1979).
Cohen and Felson (1979) argue that crime patterns change according to shifts in
everyday routine activities. For example, increased workforce participation and urban
mobility altered guardianship patterns in the United States, contributing to rising
property crime rates in the 1960s and 1970s.
