Model Essay Answers (Unit 1 Review Questions)
1. Discuss the Scope of Criminal Law in the Field of Criminal Science.
Introduction
Criminal law is a branch of public law that defines crimes, regulates the prosecution of offenders,
and prescribes punishments. It plays a central role in Criminal Science, which is the comprehensive
study of crime and its impact on society. Understanding the scope of criminal law is essential to
appreciate how it interacts with other branches of criminal science such as Criminology and
Penology.
Body
Criminal law governs the legal framework that protects society from harmful conduct. It addresses
the following key areas:
- Defining Crimes: Criminal law specifies acts that are prohibited by the state, such as murder, theft,
or corruption.
- Establishing Punishments: It determines the appropriate penalties for various crimes.
- Regulating Prosecution and Enforcement: Criminal law sets out the procedures for investigating,
charging, and prosecuting offenders.
Criminal law works alongside Criminology and Penology to prevent crimes and rehabilitate
offenders.
Conclusion
The scope of criminal law extends beyond punishment. It serves as the practical tool through which
society regulates behavior, maintains peace, and upholds justice.
2. What Are the Main Objectives of Criminal Law?
Introduction
Criminal law serves several objectives aimed at maintaining social order and protecting society. The
FDRE Criminal Code (2005) under Article 1 outlines the primary objectives of criminal law.
Body
The four main objectives are:
1. Protection of Persons and Property: Safeguarding life, liberty, and property.
2. Deterrence of Criminal Behavior: Discouraging criminal acts through fear of punishment.
3. Punishment of Criminal Activity: Ensuring that offenders pay for their actions.
4. Rehabilitation of Criminals: Reforming offenders to reintegrate into society.
Conclusion
The FDRE Criminal Code promotes a balance between protecting society and reforming offenders
through its objectives.
3. Explain the Purpose and Functions of Criminal Law in Terms of the Revised Criminal Code of
2004.
Introduction
The Revised Criminal Code of Ethiopia, enacted in 2004, serves as the primary legal framework for
defining crimes and regulating their punishment.
Body
The main functions include:
- Crime Prevention: Deterring criminal acts through legal prohibitions.
- Punishment: Imposing penalties on offenders.
- Rehabilitation: Reforming criminals through programs like supervised liberty.
- Restitution: Providing compensation to victims.
Conclusion
The Code serves both retributive and reformative purposes, promoting social order and justice.
4. Explain the Relationship Between Morality and Criminality.
Introduction
The relationship between morality and criminality is complex, as both regulate human behavior.
Body
- Overlapping Areas: Crimes like theft and murder are both immoral and illegal.
- Moral Wrongs Without Legal Sanctions: Acts like selfishness may be immoral but not criminal.
- Legal Wrongs Without Moral Guilt: Acts like traffic violations are criminal but not necessarily
immoral.
Conclusion
While criminal law is influenced by morality, it only intervenes when acts threaten public order and
security.
