Ch 9 (pt. 2): Crime & Conflict Theory

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and theories in Crime & Conflict Theory as taught in the CC100 course.

What is Conflict Theory?

A perspective that focuses on the power relations and conflicts in society, particularly between groups with power and those without.

Summarize the Consensus Perspective.

The Consensus Perspective suggests that law is the codification of mutually agreed upon societal norms and values.

What does the Conflict Model emphasize?

It emphasizes that power relations are central to societal organization and historical characterization.

Name the two classes defined in Marxism.

The Bourgeoise (owners of production) and Proletariat (workers).

What characterizes the relationship between capitalists and workers?

It is exploitative, aimed at maximizing profit while minimizing worker compensation.

How does Marxist criminology view law?

As a tool used by the ruling class to protect their interests and control the working class.

Define Relative Deprivation in Left Realism.

A perceived disadvantage compared to others, leading to feelings of anger and potential for crime.

What are the aims of conflict criminology?

To explain how political and economic control affects criminal justice administration.

Which theory critiques traditional crime statistics as biased?

Modern Conflict Theory critiques traditional crime statistics as they typically reflect lower-class crime.

What is the Instrumental Marxism perspective on the Criminal Justice System (CJS)?

Views the CJS solely as a tool for controlling the working class.

What does Structural Marxism argue about the law?

The law functions to sustain the capitalist economic system without a consciously organized ruling class.

List one implication of Marxist criminology.

Each society produces its own amounts and types of crime based on its social conditions.

What does Ralf Dahrendorf’s theory propose?

Society consists of those who possess authority and those who lack it, indicating multiple groups competing for authority.

What was an early application of conflict theory in criminology by Willem Bonger?

He stated that society is divided into haves and have-nots, where laws protect the interests of the haves.

How did Richard Quinney define crime?

As a definition of human conduct shaped by politically authorized agents.

What are the three implications of Marxist thought in criminology?

Crime is a product of society, social conditions must change to control crime, and society's crime is a reflection of its structures.

How do capitalists view labor, according to Marxist theory?

They view labor as a means to produce surplus value, maximizing profits while minimizing costs.

What is the focus of Left Realism?

Addressing the social causes of crime within the capitalist economic structure while acknowledging crime as a real issue.

How does historical context influence conflict theory?

Conflict theory evolves to address the unique power dynamics present in different historical epochs.

What is the critique of Instrumental Marxism regarding the ruling class?

It assumes the ruling class is homogenous and ignores variations in their interests.

What does Deconstructionism analyze?

The use of language and its capacity to control meanings and institutionalize social issues.

What are the roots of Feminist Theory in Marxism?

Identifies capitalism as fostering gender inequalities, viewing women as commodities.

What is the role of policing in the context of homelessness according to Deconstructionism?

It has shifted from targeting encampments to 'hotspots,' changing the implications and focus of law enforcement.

Define Power-Control Theory.

Explains crime through the lens of gender differences linked to economic power and family structure.

What is Peacemaking Criminology?

A restorative approach that emphasizes mediation and conflict resolution over punishment.

What is one characteristic of the criminal justice system as a growth complex?

It produces crime and criminals, while creating jobs in policing, legal, and correctional sectors.

How does modern conflict theory view crime statistics?

Sees them often as underrepresenting crime in middle and upper classes.

What is a criticism of Structural Marxism?

It is often ideologically biased and can romanticize crime without addressing victimization.

What do radical feminists propose about female crime?

It is caused by patriarchy and the subjugation of women by men.

How does conflict theory address social inequalities?

By examining the relationships between power dynamics and crime.

What is a major goal of Feminist Theory within conflict criminology?

To highlight how capitalism and patriarchy contribute to women's criminality and victimization.

What impact does capitalism have on social relations according to Marxist Theory?

It fosters class conflict and leads to inequalities manifested in crime.

What are the two types of productive forces in Marxist thought?

Technology and material resources.

What do Conflict Theorists reject about the view of law?

The idea that law represents the values of the majority.

What socioeconomic conditions contribute to intimate partner violence according to conflict theory?

Economic dependency, power dynamics, and social isolation.

Summarize the concept of the Criminal Justice System in the context of Marxist theory.

As a mechanism that not only enforces laws but also perpetuates social inequality.

What does labeling theory suggest about crime definitions?

Crime definitions are socially constructed based on subjective experiences.

What are the three principles of restorative justice?

Community ownership of conflict, reparation for victims, and social reintegration of the offender.