Overview
The lecture explains the concepts of specific and general deterrence through the example of speeding, showing how punishment and the risk of punishment affect behavior.
What is Deterrence?
- Deterrence is a strategy to discourage people from committing offenses by threatening punishment.
- It can affect both individuals who have already offended and those who have not.
Specific Deterrence
- Specific deterrence targets individuals who have already broken the law and received punishment.
- Example: Being issued a speeding ticket makes you obey the speed limit for some time afterward.
- The goal is to prevent repeat offenses by making the consequences personally meaningful.
General Deterrence
- General deterrence influences everyone by making people aware of the possibility of punishment.
- Example: Slowing down when seeing a police car, even if you weren't speeding.
- The presence or visibility of law enforcement affects the behavior of the general public.
- It works by creating a perception of risk that deters people from breaking the law.
Groups Affected by Deterrence
- People who have already been caught and punished (specific deterrence).
- People who have not been caught or are considering misbehavior but are deterred by the threat of being caught (general deterrence).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Specific Deterrence — Punishing an individual to discourage them from reoffending.
- General Deterrence — Preventing offenses by making the public aware of potential punishment.
- Deterrence — The act of discouraging criminal acts through fear of consequences.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of specific and general deterrence in your textbook or lecture materials.
- Reflect on situations in your life where you observed deterrence in action.