A General Theory of Crime? Extending a Rational Choice Framework to the Radical Eco-Movement

• In Event: A Broader Response to Terrorism and Ideological Crime

Abstract

Recent theoretical work has highlighted the potential rational choice theory has as a general theory of crime through the development of the oft neglected benefits construct. Although this construct is typically conceptualized as those gained from criminal behavior, terrorism research has extended this perspective to include rewards resulting from abstention. Marrying these two perspectives from a macro-level approach, the current study examines the influence of both carrot and stick-based approaches, along with other events, in relation to one of the most active ideologically-driven movements in the United States. Specifically, we examine crime and terrorism perpetrated by the radical eco-movement in relation to a variety of macro-level events, including repressive and conciliatory government actions.

Authors

• Jennifer Carson, University of Central Missouri

• Sue-Ming Yang, George Mason University

• Laura Dugan, University of Maryland