Is Criminality a Matter of Choice? Sociological Analysis of Violently Committed Robberies: A Critique of the Pakistani Legal-Administrative System’s Failure in Pakhtun Society

Abstract

Is crime a matter of choice, is an arguable and debatable phrase and conception about the existence of criminality since the Rational Choice theory emerged in the 18^th century. The classical criminologists argue that “human is a calculating animal”, who is “choosy” and “selective” in his/her actions. The analytical quality of human enables them to assess the cost and benefit of their actions, out of which they thoughtfully choose and commit the action, which they consider lucrative and utilitarian. Such debate is framed and analyzed in this study through a qualitative framework to understand the implications and legality of Rational Choice patterns in criminality focusing on property crimes, which are violently committed especially the “robberies”. The cases of violent robberies in the area under study that is a Pakhtun society are selected in which murders have taken place. Alongside, the legal-administrative structure of the area is also taken into account to understand the criminals’ mindset and the role of system in terms of its failure while ensuring the protection of masses from “rationally violent criminals”. The murderous robberies are conveniently selected where the incident-survivors or the co-victims are interviewed and analyzed in relation to the existing literature. The study finds the answer as “yes, criminality is a matter of choice and planning”, which is discussed under the “discussion section”. The overall analysis of the study is undertaken through Thematic Analysis Model for more qualitative elaboration of the issue.