What method does the Classical School favor when discussing crime and punishment?

The Classical School of criminology emphasizes the idea of free will and rational choice in criminal behavior. This school of thought advocates for the belief that individuals choose to commit crimes after weighing the potential benefits against the possible consequences. In this context, legal definitions of crime are crucial because they establish clear boundaries of acceptable behavior and the punishments associated with transgressions.

By having defined laws, individuals understand what constitutes a crime and the corresponding penalties, which are intended to deter criminal behavior. The concept assumes that individuals will not engage in criminal acts if they perceive that the risks and consequences outweigh the rewards. Thus, the emphasis on legal definitions aligns with the principles of the Classical School, as it is these laws that ultimately govern behavior in society and shape the social contract.

While concepts like rehabilitation or empirical research might also play roles in contemporary discussions of crime and punishment, they do not encapsulate the foundational approach of the Classical School, which is rooted in the idea of rational choice and defined legal parameters.