ACR101 - Week 2 - Lecture

What is the definition of crime according to McCabe?

Crime is described as elusive, lacking consensus and being subjective, varying across contexts and cultures.

What are competing definitions of crime based on?

Competing definitions of crime are based on varying cultural, temporal, and legal contexts.

What is the concept of criminalization?

Criminalization refers to the process by which certain behaviors are defined and recognized as crimes.

What does decriminalization mean?

Decriminalization refers to the removal of criminal penalties associated with certain activities, making them legal.

What is the significance of the term 'signal crime'?

Signal crime refers to high-profile criminal events that significantly impact public perceptions of safety and attitudes towards certain behaviors.

Why might harm not always equate to a crime?

Not all harmful acts are classified as crimes, and not everything considered criminal inflicts harm.

What framework do human rights definitions of crime operate under?

Human rights definitions operate under the idea that states have obligations to protect human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

What is the criticism of legal definitions of crime?

Legal definitions are highly variable, often reflect the interests of powerful groups, and don't necessarily correlate with harm.

What has changed in the legal status of cannabis in Australia?

Cannabis use has undergone various changes from illegal status to decriminalization in some areas and potential legalization.

What does crime control often focus on?

Crime control often focuses on individual responsibility and moral failings, rather than broader social and corporate factors.

What is 'net widening'?

Net widening refers to the process in which laws that criminalize minor infractions increase the number of individuals caught in the criminal justice system.

How does public perception affect laws regarding crime?

Public perception influenced by media and advocacy groups can impact the creation and repeal of laws, as seen with the Sydney Lockout Laws.

What is a common outcome of social and political definitions of crime?

These definitions highlight how laws often favor the interests of more powerful groups while marginalizing disempowered ones.

What was the primary goal of the Sydney Lockout Laws?

The primary goal was to reduce crimes such as assaults in the nightlife areas by restricting the operation hours of venues.

What can influence whether behaviors are considered criminal?

Cultural beliefs, public opinion, and the lobbying efforts of influential groups can affect whether behaviors are classified as criminal.

What role does the law play in society according to the lecture?

The law reflects societal values and cultural norms, thus it is subject to change based on shifts in those values.

What is a key difference between decriminalization and legalization?

Decriminalization removes penalties for personal use, while legalization allows for the legal supply and sale of the substance.

Why is industrial pollution cited in discussions of crime?

Industrial pollution causes significant harm but is often legal, exemplifying the disconnect between harm and criminality.

What is the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

It establishes a minimum standard for human rights protection, though its implementation is voluntary and inconsistent across nations.