The Classical School of Thought has Influenced Criminal Justice Practices the Most

 

Title: The Classical School of Thought has Influenced Criminal Justice Practices the Most

Introduction:
The classical school of thought and the positivist school of thought have both made significant contributions to the field of criminal justice. However, when considering their influence on criminal justice practices, the classical school of thought has had a more profound impact. This essay will present arguments and evidence supporting the idea that the classical school of thought has shaped laws, policies, law enforcement practices, court systems, sentencing procedures, and correctional approaches.

Laws or Policies:
The classical school of thought emphasizes that people make rational choices based on their assessment of potential benefits and consequences. This perspective has influenced the development of laws and policies that aim to deter criminal behavior through the threat of punishment. For example, the establishment of mandatory minimum sentences and three-strikes laws reflects the classical notion that harsh punishments act as a deterrent to potential offenders. These policies aim to create a rational calculation of costs and benefits to prevent individuals from engaging in criminal activities.

Law Enforcement:
The classical school of thought has also had a significant impact on law enforcement practices. Police agencies often adopt strategies that focus on visible deterrence, such as increased patrols and presence in high-crime areas. This approach aligns with the classical belief that a swift and certain response to criminal behavior can deter individuals from engaging in illegal activities. The implementation of community policing programs, where officers work collaboratively with communities to prevent crime, is another example of the classical school’s influence on law enforcement practices.

Court System and Sentencing:
The classical school’s emphasis on individual responsibility and the concept of proportionality has shaped sentencing practices within the court system. Sentencing guidelines and determinate sentencing structures aim to ensure that punishment is proportionate to the severity of the crime committed. This approach is rooted in the idea that individuals should be held accountable for their actions and that punishment should fit the crime.

Corrections, Rehabilitation, Parole:
While the positivist school of thought emphasizes scientific explanations for criminal behavior, the influence of the classical school can still be observed in correctional practices. The focus on punishment and deterrence remains prevalent in correctional institutions, where individuals are incarcerated as a consequence for their actions. Although efforts towards rehabilitation and reintegration have gained traction in recent years, the classical school’s influence can still be seen in the prioritization of punishment over other approaches.

Reducing Crime Rates and Recidivism:
The classical school’s emphasis on deterrence has influenced crime prevention strategies aimed at reducing crime rates and recidivism. Programs such as Scared Straight and boot camps draw on the belief that experiencing the consequences of criminal behavior will deter individuals from engaging in future criminal activities. These programs are rooted in the classical notion that fear of punishment can act as a deterrent and prevent individuals from reoffending.

Conclusion:
While both the classical school of thought and the positivist school of thought have influenced criminal justice practices, it is evident that the classical school has had a more substantial impact. The emphasis on individual responsibility, proportionality in punishment, and deterrence has shaped laws, policies, law enforcement practices, court systems, sentencing procedures, and correctional approaches. By focusing on rational choices and the threat of punishment, the classical school has left a lasting imprint on various aspects of the criminal justice system.