ARCHIE R.

LANABAN CRIM 101-1D (MWF 11:00-12:00) JANUARY 29, 2020

What is Theory?

Based on Kenneth Miller, Theory often means an untested hunch or a guess

without supporting evidence. But for scientists, a theory has nearly the opposite
meaning. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural
world that can incorporate laws, hypotheses and facts.

Based on Dictionary Cambridge, theory is a formal statement of the rules on

which a subject of study is based or of ideas that are suggested to explain a fact or
event or, more generally, an opinion or explanation.

What is Crime?

Based on Law Handbook, Crime is an offence that merits community

condemnation and punishment, usually by way of fine or imprisonment. This is
different from a civil wrong (a tort), which is an action against an individual that
requires compensation or restitution.

What is the importance of theory in the causation of crime?

Eric See and Elicia Kieser on Methodist University said that the importance of
theory in the causation of crime is they help us to understand the workings of the
criminal justice system and the actors in the system. Theories suggest the way
things are, not the way things ought to be. They are not inherently good or bad;
however, they can be used for good or bad purposes. A theory can try to explain
crime for a large social unit or area (macro), or it can attempt to explain crime at the
individual or smaller unit level (micro).

REFERENCES:

https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/darwin/evolution-today/what-is-a-theory

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/theory

https://lawhandbook.sa.gov.au/ch12s01.php

https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/9780199844487/guide1/study_guide.
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