changes in crime across time

Question 1

changing community values over time

Answer 1

Laws may need to change due to changing community values over time. What people in society may consider important and relevant within one generation may alter over a period of time. in order to remain relevant, the law must reflect the common values at that time.

(eg. abortion became legal in the UK due to the Abortion Act 1967 if the pregnancy had not exceeded 24 weeks).

Question 2

changing awareness in society

Answer 2

As a national community, we are much more informed today of relevant issues due to the speed and efficiency of communication. As informed citizens, we put pressure on law makers to amend or introduce legislation in areas we believe need change.

(eg. rape within marriage became illegal in 2003 as before a man couldn’t be guilty as it was argued he had ‘matrimonial consent’).

Question 3

changing technology

Answer 3

As technology is continually developed, new features introduced may become harmful to society. As technology capability grows, the law should be changed to remain relevant and purposeful.

(eg. revenge porn became illegal under the Abusive Behaviour and Sexual Harm Act in 2016).