Q: According to Rational Choice Theory, which formula best describes the decision-making process for criminal behavior?

$$\text{Expected Utility} = \text{Probability of Success} \times \text{Reward} - \text{Probability of Failure} \times \text{Cost}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the central idea of Social Contract Theory as discussed in justice studies?

Accepted Answer

Government and social order are only possible through the consent of free and rational individuals.

Question 2

According to Conflict Theory, what is the primary function of laws and the justice system?

Accepted Answer

To protect the interests of the most powerful groups in society.

Question 3

Jeremy Bentham’s Utilitarian Theory is based on which principle?

Accepted Answer

The principle of maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain.

Question 4

Emile Durkheim’s Structural Functionalism compares society to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

A human body, where each part has a specific function.

Question 5

Which theory argues that criminal behavior is a result of rational calculation based on pleasure and pain?

Accepted Answer

Rational Choice Theory

Question 6

In the Human Nature Debate, which position is supported by Skinner’s view?

Accepted Answer

Selfishness is permanent and only self-interest endures.

Question 7

Which of the following is a key difference between the Social Contract Theory and Conflict Theory?

Accepted Answer

Social Contract Theory emphasizes mutual consent, while Conflict Theory focuses on power dynamics.

Question 8

Which concept is described by Durkheim as 'anomie'?

Accepted Answer

A state of normlessness in society.

Question 9

If a society enacts mandatory arrest laws for domestic violence, which theory best explains this as a means to protect vulnerable groups?

Accepted Answer

Conflict Theory

Question 10

Which of the following equations best represents the Utilitarian approach to justice?

Accepted Answer

$$\sum_{i=1}^{n} U_i$$

Question 11

A student argues that laws should be based on what most people agree to, rather than what benefits the elite. Which theory are they most closely aligning with?

Accepted Answer

Social Contract Theory

Question 12

Which theory would most likely support the idea that justice systems should address mental health and trauma holistically?

Accepted Answer

Structural Functionalism

Question 13

According to Rational Choice Theory, which formula best describes the decision-making process for criminal behavior?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Expected Utility} = 	ext{Probability of Success} 	imes 	ext{Reward} - 	ext{Probability of Failure} 	imes 	ext{Cost}$$

Question 14

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'normlessness' in Durkheim’s theory?

Accepted Answer

A community where traditional roles and rules have broken down, leading to confusion and instability.

Question 15

Which theory would most likely argue that homelessness is a result of structural issues within society?

Accepted Answer

Structural Functionalism

Question 16

If a person believes that humans are fundamentally compassionate and caring, which theorist’s view are they most likely to agree with?

Accepted Answer

Ibn Tufail

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT a feature of Social Contract Theory?

Accepted Answer

Justice determined by maximizing pleasure

Question 18

A policymaker wants to reduce suffering in society. According to Utilitarian Theory, which of the following should be their main goal?

Accepted Answer

Maximize the total utility for all individuals.

Question 19

Which theory would most likely explain criminalization as a tool used by powerful groups to maintain their dominance?

Accepted Answer

Conflict Theory

Question 20

Which of the following best represents the idea of 'pleasure-pain principle' in Rational Choice Theory?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Behavior} = 	ext{Pleasure} - 	ext{Pain}$$

Theories of Justice: Foundations and Perspectives (Week 2 Study Notes)

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