The Classical School Manifesto

The Classical School Manifesto refers to the foundational principles of classical criminology, emphasizing that crime is a result of rational decision-making. It believes individuals weigh potential benefits against the risks of punishment before committing offenses. The approach advocates for fair, consistent punishment to deter crime, emphasizing the importance of laws, free will, and reason. Its core idea is that if punishments are swift, certain, and proportional, they will discourage criminal behavior and promote social order. This perspective influenced modern criminal justice by highlighting the importance of deterrence and the rational nature of human choices.