SOCI-225 Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Deterrence Theory, Cesare Lombroso, Victimology
Document Summary
We have come a long way in our understanding of crime, criminals, victimology, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Early theories of crime were based on superstition, which often led to unethical and immoral treatment of offenders. Today, all people, offenders and non-offenders alike, have certain rights. Prior to the eighteenth century, early theories of crime were based on superstition and religious beliefs. They attempted to link criminality with evil spirits. The elderly, the sick, economically independent women, and children were often accused of practicing witchcraft and made scapegoats for those difficult times. Public executions were often the norm and torture was applied until a confession was uttered. If the confession was retracted, torture was applied again. However, the sadistic practices of early times were abandoned for what was considered progressive criminal justice theory. The classical school dominated this criminological period (ie enlightenment).
