Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book suggests a rational choice perspective on criminal behaviour-was intended to locate criminological findings within a framework particularly suitable for thinking about policy-relevant research. It consists of a number of empirical studies of shoplifting, robbery, commercial burglary. Considered merely as additions to the crime-specific literature, these studies contribute greatly to our knowledge about particular offenses. This may be illustrated by a few of the more unexpected findings: that many robberies are impulsive and that some robbers avoid burglary for fear of encountering the householder. The book addresses some general theoretical issues. One of these concerns the place of a rational choice perspective in theoretical criminology. The book concerns the nature of the criminal decision-making process. It also concerns the role of specialization in criminal behavior. The book also concerned with the implications for policy of a rational choice approach.