Economics of Crime

Eide, Erling; Rubin, Paul H.; Shepherd, Joanna M.

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Economics of Crime

Foundations and Trends in Microeconomics, Vol. 2, No. 3, 2006

Emory Law and Economics Research Paper No. 11-114

77 Pages Posted: 19 Aug 2011 Last revised: 13 Oct 2011

See all articles by Erling Eide

Paul H. Rubin

Emory University - Department of Economics

Joanna M. Shepherd

Emory University School of Law

Date Written: 2006

Abstract

This paper starts with a review the economics of criminal behavior. Then, the authors discuss the theory of public enforcement. The economic analysis of criminal behavior and criminal law has been a hugely successful enterprise. As an academic enterprise, it has achieved the goal of research – it has generated a large and growing literature. More important than academic success, however, has been the influence of this branch of learning on actual practice. The understanding of deterrence effects and rational responses by criminals has substantially changed the purpose and functioning of the criminal justice system.

Keywords: criminal behavior, economics of crime

JEL Classification: K00, K14

Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation

Eide, Erling and Rubin, Paul H. and Shepherd, Joanna M., Economics of Crime (2006). Foundations and Trends in Microeconomics, Vol. 2, No. 3, 2006 , Emory Law and Economics Research Paper No. 11-114, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1912073