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Research ArticleArticles

Does Strengthening Self-Defense Law Deter Crime or Escalate Violence?

Evidence from Expansions to Castle Doctrine

Cheng Cheng and Mark Hoekstra
Journal of Human Resources, July 2013, 48 (3) 821-854; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3368/jhr.48.3.821
Cheng Cheng
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Mark Hoekstra
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Abstract

From 2000 to 2010, more than 20 states passed so-called “Castle Doctrine” or “stand your ground” laws. These laws expand the legal justification for the use of lethal force in self-defense, thereby lowering the expected cost of using lethal force and increasing the expected cost of committing violent crime. This paper exploits the within-state variation in self-defense law to examine their effect on homicides and violent crime. Results indicate the laws do not deter burglary, robbery, or aggravated assault. In contrast, they lead to a statistically significant 8 percent net increase in the number of reported murders and nonnegligent manslaughters.

  • Received December 2012.
  • Accepted December 2012.
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Journal of Human Resources: 48 (3)
Journal of Human Resources
Vol. 48, Issue 3
1 Jul 2013
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Does Strengthening Self-Defense Law Deter Crime or Escalate Violence?
Cheng Cheng, Mark Hoekstra
Journal of Human Resources Jul 2013, 48 (3) 821-854; DOI: 10.3368/jhr.48.3.821

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Does Strengthening Self-Defense Law Deter Crime or Escalate Violence?
Cheng Cheng, Mark Hoekstra
Journal of Human Resources Jul 2013, 48 (3) 821-854; DOI: 10.3368/jhr.48.3.821
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  • Article
    • Abstract
    • I. Introduction
    • II. Castle Doctrine Law and Data
    • III. Identification
    • IV. Results
    • V. Conclusion
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