What does Neoclassical Theory take into account that early criminology ideas did not?

Neoclassical Theory is significant in criminology because it expands on earlier theories by incorporating the concepts of rational choice and free will, particularly as they pertain to the mental state of the offender at the time of the crime. One of the key aspects that Neoclassical Theory considers is the notion of insanity and premeditation. This understanding reflects a shift from determinism—where early criminology largely viewed criminals as products of their environment or biology—to a focus on the individual's mental processes and intentions.

This theory acknowledges that not all individuals are equally capable of making rational decisions due to factors such as mental illness or the deliberate planning of a crime. Insanity defenses and the definition of premeditation recognize that context matters when assessing culpability. This is vital for a just legal system and illustrates how individual circumstances can influence criminal behavior, making Neoclassical Theory more nuanced than its predecessors, which often overlooked these psychological elements in favor of broader social conditions.