The legal essence of a criminal act.

Laws in the United States have been shaped by a number of historical developments and philosophical perspectives. Explain how criminal law, in particular, has been greatly influenced by natural law theories. Explain in detail the legal essence of a criminal act. Discuss the types of acts that may be included, and those that are omitted from being a criminal act (evil thoughts). Explain the difference between factual and proximate cause. What is the difference between crimes and inchoate crimes?