Review the articles linked with each individual motive. Rank the
motives from 1 to 7 as those that make the most sense
(being 1) to the least sense (being 7). Explain why you rank each
motive the way you rank it.
- Multiple Reasons: This motive makes the most sense because the individual has many reasons to commit a crime. They are driven by many factors and are fully convinced in multiple aspects that they should do it. For example, it makes more sense for a poor revenge-seeking individual to commit a crime compared to a rich revenge-seeking individual.
- Money: This is the strongest motivator and the root of evil. Money addresses our most basic needs as it ensures they we have shelter and food. Financial gain causes people to take various actions even if it is illegal or unethical. We live to earn money in order to survive. Skilled hackers can use their talents to gain wealth quickly and live the life of their dreams without having to “work hard”.
- Revenge: When people are wronged by others, their emotions can get the best of them and they feel the need to get even. They often get blindsided on what the right thing to do is. They are driven by a desire to take justice into their own hands even if it means committing a crime.
- Recognition: While this is not a basic need for humans, we still have the desire to be recognized by others. We want people to see our achievements and leave a footprint on this earth whether it is good for society or not.
- Political: When people are passionate about their beliefs and values, it may cause them to commit crimes such as terrorism and violence. Their beliefs are so strong and they believe that these crimes are necessary to bring about change.
- Entertainment: This motive is challenging to grasp for me because it involves an individual who seeks the rush of adrenaline as they commit a crime. They willingly put themselves at risk for the sake of personal enjoyment.
- Boredom: This motive ranks as the least sensible motive because it lacks purpose. An individual must live such a meaningless life and have nothing going on that it leads them to commit crimes to fill the void.