reasons for social class differences in crime stats

Question 1

point 1

Answer 1

Official statistics indicate that working-class individuals, mostly male, black and white are the main offenders.

explanation of this is that most crimes committed by the working class are more detectable offences.

link to white collar crime

Theories e.g. Strain Theory provide explanations as to why this occurs.

Question 2

point 2

Answer 2

Pearce’s classical Marxist approach to criminology claims that the laws that exist to help workers actually favour the bourgeoisie. He points out that the laws regarding health and safety are basically implemented to maintain a healthy workforce for the ruling classes.