1.2 Explain the social construction of criminality Flashcards
(10 cards)
What does “social construction of criminality” mean?
It refers to the idea that what is considered criminal varies across societies, cultures, and time periods, rather than being universally fixed.
Why do laws change over time? Give an example.
Laws change due to shifts in societal values, knowledge, and attitudes.
Example: Abortion was illegal in the UK until the Abortion Act 1967.
What is an example of an act that was once legal but is now illegal?
Smoking in public places was legal in the UK until the 2007 smoking ban.
What is an example of a crime that varies between cultures?
Drinking alcohol is legal in the UK but illegal in Saudi Arabia due to religious laws.
What factors influence the social construction of crime?
- Culture (different beliefs and traditions)
Time period (laws evolve)
Place (different laws in different countries)
Politics (government influence)
Public perception (changing attitudes)
How do moral panics influence criminality?
Media exaggeration can create fear and pressure the government to introduce new laws.
Example: The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 was introduced after media reports of dog attacks.
How does religion impact the definition of crime?
Some actions are criminalized due to religious beliefs, such as homosexuality being illegal in some countries based on religious laws.
What is an example of a law that differs between countries?
Cannabis is legal in Canada but illegal in the UK.
What is an example of a historically relative crime?
Homosexuality was illegal in the UK until 1967 but is now legal and accepted.
How do political influences shape criminal laws?
Governments can introduce or remove laws based on ideology.
Example: Capital punishment was abolished in the UK in 1965 due to changing political and public attitudes.
