Criminogenic Capitalism

Question 1

Definition of criminogenic capitalism

Answer 1

The very nature of capitalism causes crime

Question 2

Why are the proletariat driven to crime? 3 ways

Answer 2

• poverty may mean crime is the only way w/c can survive
• crime may be the only way they can obtain the consumer goods encouraged by capitalist advertising -> result in utilitarian crime
• alienation and lack of control over their lives may lead to frustration and aggression resulting in non utilitarian crime

Question 3

What is dog eat dog analogy ?

Answer 3

Capitalism is a system of competition which encourages a mentality of greed and self interest. The need to win at all costs encourages white collar and corporate crimes e.g tax evasion and breaches of health and safety laws

Question 4

What does Gordon argue about crime

Answer 4

It’s a rational response to the capitalist system and hence it’s found in all social classes despite official statistics making it appear to be a largely working class phenomenon