Difference Between Rational Choice Theory and Deterrence Theory

The main difference between rational choice theory and deterrence theory is that rational choice theory states that humans use rational calculations to make rational choices. On the other hand, the deterrence theory states that severe, swift, and certain punishment can reduce crime.

In criminology, rational choice theory and deterrence theory help to analyze criminal behaviour. Rational choice theory states that individuals have free will to choose between criminal or non-criminal behaviours. Deterrence theory, on the other hand, is a choice-based theory that states people commit crimes when the expected benefits of committing a crime outweigh the likely costs of crime. Thus, rational choice theory is the flip-side of deterrence.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Rational Choice Theory 
     – Definition, Characteristics
2. What is Deterrence Theory
     – Definition, Characteristics
3. What is the Difference Between Rational Choice Theory and Deterrence Theory
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Deterrence Theory, Rational, Rational Choice Theory, Utilitarian

What is Rational Choice Theory

Rational choice theory is a Utilitarian belief that states that humans use rational calculations to make rational choices. By making rational choices, they achieve outcomes that are aligned with their own personal objectives. According to rational choice, people freely choose their behaviour and are motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain. In brief, people assess their choice of actions, comparing each option’s ability to produce advantage, pleasure and happiness. Moreover, rational choice theory is based on the fundamental doctrines of classical criminology. This method was mainly developed by Cornish and Clarke to help in thinking about crime prevention.

Furthermore, according to this theory, using rational choice theory can result in consequences that give people the greatest advantage and satisfaction given the choices they have available. Therefore, people choose to commit crimes because they think that it will be less costly, more rewarding, more satisfying and easier for them than non-criminal behaviour; they are not forced or compelled to commit crimes.

What is Deterrence Theory

Deterrence theory states that people choose to violate or obey the law after calculating the consequences of their actions. According to this theory, it’s not a sense of morality that prevents people from committing crimes, but the fear of receiving punishment. Moreover, the beginning of this theory can be traced back to the works of classical philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, Cesare Beccaria, and Jeremy Bentham.

Furthermore, deterrence theory depends on three main components: severity, certainty, and celerity. It is believed that the more severe a punishment, the less likely that rationally calculating human beings will commit criminal acts. The certainty of punishment means making sure that punishment takes place whenever a person commits a criminal act. Celerity refers to swiftness – the punishment must be swift in order to deter crime.

Furthermore, there are two types of deterrence as general and specific. General deterrence aims to prevent crime in the general population. Punishment of offenders in a country is an example for others in the general population who have not yet committed any crimes; for example, the death penalty and corporal punishment. In addition to these, it can make them more aware of the consequences of criminal activities. Some countries use a system of public punishment so that general public can witness their punishment and learn the consequences of criminal acts; for example, countries like Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and Iran allow public punishment.

Specific deterrence, on the other hand, aims at discouraging individuals from committing further crimes in the future. For instance, a drunk driver would be discouraged from drinking and driving in the future due to the unpleasant experience he or she faces from having his or her license taken away or from being arrested.

Difference Between Rational Choice Theory and Deterrence Theory

Definition

Rational choice theory is a Utilitarian belief that states that humans use rational calculations to make rational choices, and that individuals have free will to choose between criminal or non-criminal behaviours. In contrast, deterrence theory is a choice-based theory that states that people choose to violate or obey the law after calculating the consequences of their actions.

Basis

While rational choice theory states that humans use rational calculations to make rational choices, deterrence theory states that severe, swift, and certain punishment can reduce crime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rational choice theory states that individuals have free will to choose between criminal or non-criminal behaviours. Deterrence theory, on the other hand, is a choice-based theory that states people commit crimes when the expected benefits of committing a crime outweigh the likely costs of crime. The main difference between rational choice theory and deterrence theory is that rational choice theory states that humans use rational calculations to make rational choices whereas deterrence theory states that severe, swift, and certain punishment can reduce crime.

Reference:

1. “Chapter 3: Rational Choice And Routine Activities Theory.” Ministry of Children and Youth Services, Government of Ontario, Available here.
2. Onwudiwe, Ihekwoaba D., et al. “Deterrence Theory.” Encyclopedia of Prisons & Correctional Facilities.Ed. Mary Bosworth. Vol. 1. Thousand Oaks: SAGE Publications, Inc., 2005. 234-237. SAGE Knowledge. Web. 12 May. 2020, doi: 10.4135/9781412952514.n91.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Choice-2692466 960 720” By Geralt (CC0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Close-up photography gray stainless steel hand cuffs” (CC0) via Pickrepo