Sociology 2266A/B Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Extenuating Circumstances, Demonic Possession, Age Of Enlightenment
26 Oct 2016
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Document Summary
Theories about crime were previously inspired by religious beliefs and superstition. Jeudo-christian teachings offer two powerful explanations for the role evil spirits play in sinful behaviour: temptation and possession. Temptation is rooted in the belief that people exercise freewill and choose to act in particular ways even if its wrong. Dont do wrong because of their faith. The misfortunes of the poor pre 18th century was believed to be caused by their own moral failures. These beliefs are the basis of deterrence : most ppl believe that the threat of severe punishment should be enough to persuade people not to engage in misdeeds. The jeudo-christian concept that links sin to evil spirits is that of possession. People who did wrong were thought to be possessed. had a ton of horrifying tortures that were used to drive the spirits out. These were at the peak in the middle ages. Had to change in medieval society because existing social arrangements were changing.
