The Naturalists and the Classical School emphasized _________ as the main explanation for human behavior.

The correct answer highlights hedonism, which posits that individuals are motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. This perspective aligns with the ideas put forth by the Classical School of criminology, particularly those of Cesare Beccaria, who argued that humans act rationally and make decisions based on the potential for pleasure versus pain. The Classical School's focus on free will and rational choice is inherently linked to hedonistic principles, suggesting that people weigh the potential benefits against the consequences of their actions.

In this context, hedonism serves as a foundational concept, supporting the argument that individuals are capable of making rational decisions to pursue their self-interest. The emphasis on pleasure-seeking behavior leads to the conclusion that people will engage in criminal activities if they believe that the rewards outweigh the risks of punishment.

While utilitarianism, determinism, and empiricism are relevant concepts in the broader discussion of criminological theory, they do not directly encapsulate the central focus of the Classical School. Utilitarianism relates to the greater good and societal benefit derived from actions, determinism suggests that behavior is predetermined by biological or environmental factors, and empiricism emphasizes knowledge through observation and experience. None of these frameworks align as closely with the hedon