left realism

What are the three main reasons why left realists reject Marxist explanations?

• 90% of crimes are reported by the public

• selective racism - black peoples have higher rates of criminalisation than Asians

• intra ethnic crime

What are the two explanations left realists think?

• relative deprivation (+subcultures)

• marginalisation

Why do left realists think relative deprivation causes crime?

• individuals from EM backgrounds experience relative deprivation

• sense of relative disadvantage leads to frustration and criminal behaviour as a result of addressing perceived injustice

Who’s study supports relative deprivation?

• Fitzgerald et al

• rates of street crime highest in poor areas where young deprived people were in contact with wealthier groups

• Black people more likely to live in these areas

How do left realists explain crime through marginalisation?

• EMs face social and economic marginalisation

• limited legitimate opportunities

• result in criminal activities to overcome their disadvantaged status

What’s an example of marginalisation being used in real life?

• black young men = unemployed = without union

• don’t feel like anyone will stand up for their interests because they aren’t used to it