Sociological Theories On Crime- Functionalism/marxism/realism Flashcards
(22 cards)
What do Marxists say about crime?
Marxists argue that capitalism is criminogenic, leading to crime through alienation, competition, and materialism.
What is meant by ‘false class consciousness’?
A term used to describe the way in which the working class is misled about their true economic interests, often by the ruling class.
How does capitalism contribute to crime?
Capitalism creates inequality and frustration, pushing individuals into poverty and crime as a means of survival.
What role does the government play in crime control?
The government enacts laws and regulations designed to reduce criminal acts, often serving the interests of the ruling class.
What is commodity fetishism?
The perception of social relationships involved in production as economic relationships among the money and commodities exchanged in market trade.
How does media influence perceptions of crime?
Media campaigns can shift attention away from harmful crimes and focus on less significant issues, often benefiting the wealthy.
What is the impact of selective law enforcement?
Selective law enforcement tends to target the working class while allowing the wealthy to evade prosecution, perpetuating inequality.
What are the ideological functions of crime?
Crime and laws can conceal inequality and provide a means for the ruling class to maintain control over the working class.
What is the relationship between economic determinism and crime?
Economic determinism suggests that economic factors significantly influence criminal behavior and societal responses to crime.
How does Marxism view social policy?
Marxism is critical of social policy, viewing it as a failure that often blames the victim rather than addressing systemic issues.
What is the ‘crisis of abundance’?
A situation where overproduction leads to economic instability, contributing to social issues including crime.
What is the role of informal control in crime prevention?
Informal control includes community measures such as social norms and peer pressure that discourage criminal behavior.
What is Routine Activity Theory?
A theory that explains the relationship between crime and capitalism, emphasizing practical approaches and non-utopian solutions.
What are the positives of Marxism in relation to crime?
Marxism offers a useful explanation of the relationship between crime and capitalism, showing the link between law-making and enforcement and the interests of the capitalist class.
What does Marxism suggest about crime control methods?
It offers solutions on how society could change to reduce crime, focusing on victim and punishment.
What are the negatives of Marxism in relation to crime?
It largely ignores the relationship between crime and non-class inequalities such as gender and ethnicity, and is considered deterministic.
What do realists say about crime?
Realists argue that society is too individualistic and suggest moving towards social cohesion to deter crime, using victimization surveys and trusting crime statistics.
What is the political perspective of the Right regarding crime?
The Right emphasizes individualism and self-interest, advocating for low taxation and economic freedom.
What is the political perspective of the Left regarding crime?
The Left promotes collectivism, advocating for economic regulation, high taxes on the rich, and equality of opportunity.
What does Marxism predict about the working class and crime?
Marxism predicts that the working class is always forced into committing crimes due to financial constraints.
Do all capitalist societies have high crime rates?
No, not all capitalist societies have high crime rates.
How does the criminal justice system relate to the capitalist class?
The criminal justice system sometimes acts against the interests of the capitalist class.
