Marxism Flashcards
why does crime happen for marxists
criminogenic capitalism, the state and law making, selective enforcement and ideological functions of crime and law
what is criminogenic capitalism
-capitalism in its very nature caused crime.
-capitalism is based on exploitation of the WC (used as a means to end).
why do WC commit crime
its only way they can survive and get out of poverty (exploited - little pay). crime is the only way the WC can get consumer goods that capitalism promotes (yt ads). alienation and lack of control over their lives may lead to frustration and aggression resulting in violent crime.
GAP crime
G-reed - consumer goods
A-lienation - violent crimes
P-overty - surviving
why do RC commit crime?
american dream encourages people to amass property and get richer. may commit corporate crimes (tax evasion - google) and breaking health and safety laws (hugo boss)
why does state and law making cause c+d?
law making and enforcement serves the interests of the capitalist class ( law protecting priv property - david chambliss). RC have power to prevent laws that harm their interests and pass laws that support them.
For example, English law into african colonies - the African population were initially reluctant to work on the plantations, so the British enforce taxation that must be paid in cash. no payment = criminal offence. The only way to pay the tax would be working on the plantations. therefore serving the economic interests of the capitalist plantation owners.
why does selective enforcement cause c+d?
CJS chooses which crimes to prosecute and which to turn a blind eye to. powerless groups like WC + EMs are criminalised whilst police and courts turn blind eye to crimes of the powerful.
why does ideological functions of crime and law cause c+d?
crime and the law perfrom ideological functions for capitalism - they spread ideas that help to keep workers passive. although some laws do benefit workers like health and safety laws, these are only a caring face promoting a false class consciousness.
