Which theories focus on human rights and legal statutes?

The focus on human rights and legal statutes is most closely associated with classical theories. Classical theory, originating in the late 18th century, posits that individuals possess free will and make rational choices. This framework emphasizes the importance of legal structures and the social contract, suggesting that laws should be designed to deter crime through the punishment of offenders. The emphasis on the rights of individuals and the necessity of fair legal processes underpins the classical perspective, making it foundational to the development of modern legal systems that prioritize human rights.

In contrast, positivist theories concentrate on the scientific study of crime and the factors that influence criminal behavior, often seeking to identify biological or psychological determinants rather than focusing on the legal rights of individuals. Critical theories, including various strands such as Marxist and feminist theories, critique the ways in which laws and societal structures are shaped by power dynamics and often focus on inequality rather than solely on legal statutes. Social theories broadly examine societal influences on crime but do not specifically emphasize legal statutes or human rights in the same way classical theories do.