Escuela Clásica de Criminología

Classical School of Criminology

The classical school of criminology is one of the earliest theories within the field of criminology, originating in Europe during the mid-18th century. This theory was developed by thinkers such as Cesare Beccaria, whose seminal work "On Crimes and Punishments" (1764) laid down fundamental principles of criminal law that still apply today. While it has been superseded by other criminological perspectives like positivism and sociobiology, the classical school remains an important part of criminological thought due to its influence on modern penal codes.

Definition of Crime as a Legal Concept

A key aspect of the classical school's approach to crime is the definition of crimes as a violation of certain laws established by society. In this view, a crime is seen as an act that violates specific rules set forth by the state. So, rather than viewing crime through a lens of biological predispositions or societal conditions, the classical school focuses on the individual's actions and their breach of social rules.

This perspective holds that individuals engaging in criminal behavior should face certain consequences in order to deter them from committing additional offenses. As such, punishment is considered necessary and proportional to the severity of the offense, which is largely determined by whether the crime violates the rights of others. By emphasizing the importance of preventing crime through fear of punishment, the classical school lays the groundwork for modern penalties like fines, imprisonment, and probation.

In conclusion, the classical school of criminology offers valuable insights into the nature of law, crime, and justice. Its focus on legal concepts provides a strong foundation for understanding how societies have historically dealt with instances of criminal activity and continues to shape our discussions about crime and punishment today.