RATIONAL CHOICE

THEORY
 Rational choice theory originated during the
late 18th century with the work of Cesare
Beccaria. In criminology, rational choice
theory adopts a utilitarian belief that humans
are reasoning actors who weigh means and
ends, costs and benefits, in order to make a
rational choice.
Utilitarianism
– It is a philosophy which argues that what is right is the one
that would cause the greatest good for the greatest number
of people.
- Others refer to it as the greatest happiness principle or the
principle of utility.
- From this principle, Bentham formulated the “felicific
calculus”.
Felicific Calculus or the “pleasure and pain principle”
– the pseudo-mathematical formula which states that
individuals are human calculators who put all the factors
into an equation in order to decide whether a particular
crime is worth committing or not.
 Rational Choice Theory
by William Glasser
- It states that individuals use rational
calculations to make rational choices and
achieve outcomes that are aligned with
their own personal objectives. These
results are also associated with an
individual’s best, self-interests.
Rational Choice Theory Several
Assumptions:

1. Individualism
2. Individuals have to maximize
their goals
3. Individuals are self-interested
 According to Noble Prize-winning
economist Gary Becker, rational choice
theory is used in both criminal and non-
criminal behavior. It involves
intentionally commiting some act
because the reward gained from that act
will be greater than the risk associated
with it.
 Another aspect of rational choice
theory is the fact that many offenders
make decisions based on
bounded/limited rationality.
Limited Rationality emphasized the extent
which individuals and groups simplify a
decision because of difficulties of
anticipating or considering all alternatives
and all information.
Bounded Rationality has two aspects;
1. Cognitive Limitations
2. Emotional Arousal
This theory is also similar to Routine
Activity Theory develop by Cohen
and Felson. It states that for a crime
to occur three elements must
present.
There must be;
• An available and suitable target
• A motivated offender; and
• No authority figure to prevent the
crime from happening.
 Thank You! 🤗

Prepared by:

Literal, Gracy Coronado

Olarte, Cyrus Emejas