topic 4 Flashcards

(16 cards)

1
Q

What do Social Structure theories attribute to criminality?

A

The structure of society itself

Social Structure theories place some blame for criminality on societal structures.

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2
Q

What is Functionalism in the context of social structure theories?

A

Belief that society works because different parts (institutions) have important functions

Functionalism views crime and the criminal justice system as essential functions of society.

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3
Q

What role does crime play in promoting social solidarity according to Functionalists?

A

Affirming social values and encouraging social change

Severe crimes can unite society in collective sorrow and reaffirm existing values.

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4
Q

Who is a prominent Functionalist theorist mentioned in the text?

A

Durkheim

Durkheim argued that crime is inevitable and necessary for social life.

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5
Q

What is a key weakness of Functionalism?

A

It explains the positive impact of crime but not the reason why crime exists

Functionalism overlooks the causes of crime and its effects on different groups.

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6
Q

What do Marxist Theories believe about capitalism?

A

It is in a constant state of conflict between the working class and the ruling/capitalist class

Marxists argue that the ruling class oppresses the working class to maximize profit.

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7
Q

How does capitalism encourage crime according to Marxism?

A

Through individualism, self-preservation, and greed

The class system based on capitalism leads to exploitation and desire.

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8
Q

What are the two ways capitalism causes crime as outlined by Marxists?

A
  • Exploitation (oppression, poverty, alienation)
  • Motivation & Desire (temptation to attain what is lacking)

Different social classes are associated with different types of crime.

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9
Q

What is Labelling Theory as proposed by Becker?

A

No act is inherently criminal; it becomes criminal when labelled by others

Social groups create deviance by establishing rules and labelling rule-breakers.

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10
Q

What is the concept of the Deviant Career?

A

Society’s reaction to an act, not the act itself, creates serious deviance

This process involves primary and secondary deviance leading to a deviant identity.

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11
Q

What are the strengths of Interactionist Theories?

A
  • Show how law enforcement can be discriminatory
  • Highlight the importance of labelling

They illustrate how labels can shape an individual’s identity.

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12
Q

What is Right Realism’s approach to understanding crime?

A

‘Tough on crime’ and blames the individual for criminality

Right Realism focuses on practical solutions like harsh punishment.

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13
Q

What causes of crime does Right Realism highlight?

A
  • Poor socialisation
  • Rational Choice

Charles Murray and Ron Clarke discussed the lack of social control and decision-making in criminal acts.

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14
Q

What does Left Realism blame for crime?

A

Inequalities in society

Left Realists advocate for gradual change to address root causes of crime.

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15
Q

What are the two causes of crime identified by Left Realism?

A
  • Marginalisation
  • Relative Deprivation

These concepts explain the feelings leading to discontent and potential criminal behavior.

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16
Q

What are the weaknesses of Left Realism?

A
  • Focus on street crimes
  • Potentially over-predicting crime
  • Unrepresentative view from inner-city focus

Left Realism neglects white-collar crime and does not generalize well to all types of crime.