Question

Which of the following are the characteristics of radical criminology?
A. It rejects the individualistic approach to crime causation.
B. Instead of explaining the fact of deviance with reference to the society within which it occurs, it gives importance to social power.
C. It questions the rightfulness of law.
D. It postulates the 'free-will' of deviants.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B and D only
• B. A, B and C only
• C. A, B, C and D
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

To distinguish between criminological schools:
{Classical School} = Free Will & Rational Choice.
{Positive School} = Determinism (Biological, Psychological factors).
{Radical/Critical School} = Power, Class Conflict & Capitalism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Introduction to Radical Criminology:
Radical Criminology, also known as Critical or Marxist Criminology, is a perspective originating in the 1960s. It examines crime and justice through the lens of social class, power imbalances, and inequality.
Step 2: Key Characteristics:
Key features are analyzed below:

A: This is true. Radical criminology rejects theories blaming crime on individual flaws (e.g., biological or psychological). Instead, it emphasizes societal structures' impact.

B: This is true. It asserts that crime stems from societal power dynamics, particularly the conflict between the ruling class (bourgeoisie) and the working class (proletariat). The powerful define crime to protect their interests.

C: This is true. Radical Criminology views law not as neutral, but as a tool of the ruling class. It maintains social and economic order and suppresses dissent. It questions the legal system's legitimacy.

D: This is false. The concept of 'free-will' is central to the Classical School of Criminology (associated with Beccaria and Bentham). Radical criminology is deterministic, arguing that social and economic conditions, not free choice, drive criminal behavior.

Step 3: Conclusion:
Statements A, B, and C accurately reflect Radical Criminology's core tenets, while D describes a characteristic of the Classical School. Therefore, the correct answer is A, B and C only.