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A theoretical critique of deterrence-based policy

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  • Mears, Daniel P.
  • Stafford, Mark C.

Abstract

Deterrence-based policies are central to criminal justice, assumed greater prominence in recent decades, and have assumed that more and tougher punishment necessarily deters crime. This paper provides a theoretical critique of deterrence to identify the limits and possibilities of effective deterrence-based criminal justice policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Mears, Daniel P. & Stafford, Mark C., 2024. "A theoretical critique of deterrence-based policy," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 95(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcjust:v:95:y:2024:i:c:s0047235224001545
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2024.102305
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Baker, Thomas & Piquero, Alex R., 2010. "Assessing the perceived benefits--criminal offending relationship," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 38(5), pages 981-987, September.
    2. Viscusi, W Kip, 1986. "The Risks and Rewards of Criminal Activity: A Comprehensive Test of Criminal Deterrence," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 4(3), pages 317-340, July.
    3. Alex Raskolnikov, 2020. "Criminal Deterrence: A Review of the Missing Literature," Supreme Court Economic Review, University of Chicago Press, vol. 28(1), pages 1-59.
    4. Jaimee Mallion & Jane Wood, 2020. "Street Gang Intervention: Review and Good Lives Extension," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 9(9), pages 1-24, September.
    5. Aaron Chalfin & Justin McCrary, 2017. "Criminal Deterrence: A Review of the Literature," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 55(1), pages 5-48, March.
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