In terms of criminal behavior, what does the term "crimes of necessity" refer to?

The term "crimes of necessity" specifically refers to actions taken by individuals who feel compelled to commit illegal acts primarily for financial survival. This concept revolves around the idea that in times of extreme hardship or impoverishment, individuals may resort to criminal behavior as a means to secure basic needs such as food, shelter, or essential resources. These crimes are often seen not as a choice in the traditional sense but rather as a last resort for survival.

For instance, stealing food to feed oneself or one's family during a dire economic crisis can be categorized as a crime of necessity. This perspective emphasizes the social and economic contexts that drive individuals toward such behavior, viewing their actions through a lens of sociological understanding rather than merely as moral failings.