Social Construction of Crime (AC1.2)

What does “social construction of crime” mean?

Crime is not fixed — it is defined by society. What counts as crime depends on laws, culture, time, and place.

Why does crime differ across cultures?

Different societies have different values and norms, so behaviours seen as criminal in one place may be acceptable in another.

Example of crime differing across cultures?

Alcohol is illegal in some countries (e.g. strict Islamic states) but legal in the UK.

Why does crime change over time?

Laws change as society’s attitudes and morals change.

Example of crime changing over time?

Homosexuality was illegal in the UK before 1967 but is now legal.

What is the role of the law in defining crime?

Crime is behaviour that breaks the law — so when laws change, crime changes.

What is relativism in crime?

The idea that crime is relative — it depends on time, place, and culture.

What is universalism in crime?

The idea that some acts (like murder) are wrong in all societies.

What does “law applied differently” mean?

Even if laws are the same, how they are enforced can vary depending on the situation.

How can social class affect law enforcement?

Working-class people are more likely to be stopped, searched, and punished.

How can ethnicity affect law enforcement?

Some ethnic minorities are disproportionately targeted by police (e.g. stop and search).

How can age affect how the law is applied?

Young offenders may receive lighter sentences or warnings instead of prison.

Example of discretion?

A police officer may warn one person for theft but arrest another depending on circumstances.

What is the “labelling” idea?

Some groups are more likely to be labelled as criminals, affecting how they are treated.

Why is the law not always applied fairly?

Bias, stereotypes, and power differences influence decisions in the justice system.

What is an example of unequal justice?

White-collar crimes (e.g. fraud) often receive lighter punishment than street crimes.

Key summary point for exam?

Crime is socially constructed and the law is applied unevenly — influenced by culture, time, and social factors.