1.2 Flashcards
How do laws on polygamy change from culture to culture?
Polygamy = multiple spouses at once; includes polygyny (man with multiple wives) and polyandry (woman with multiple husbands). Legal in 58 countries, mostly Muslim-majority due to religious approval in the Qur’an. Illegal in many countries like the UK (up to 7 years in prison for bigamy). Also banned in some Muslim countries, e.g., Turkey. Influenced by religion and tradition (common in some African cultures, though declining).
How do laws on adultery change from culture to culture?
Defined as sexual activity involving at least one married person. Not clearly defined and not criminal in many countries (e.g., UK, South Korea). Recently decriminalized in India (2018), still illegal in 21 US states. Punishments range from fines (Rhode Island) to imprisonment (Florida) to stoning (Saudi Arabia). Strongly influenced by religion – forbidden in Christianity, Islam, Judaism. Linked to women’s status – stricter in patriarchal societies.
How do laws on homosexuality change from culture to culture?
Legal in many Western countries (UK, Europe, Americas). Illegal in many Muslim-majority countries, though legal in some (e.g., Indonesia). Male homosexuality criminalized in 72 countries; female in 45. Punishable by death in 6 countries. Religion is a major factor – traditional condemnation in Islam, Christianity, Judaism. Secular societies are more tolerant and inclusive. Sexism influences law – male homosexuality more targeted due to gender bias.
How have laws on prostitution changed over time?
Once heavily stigmatised and linked to immorality. Regulated under the Street Offences Act 1959. By 2022, focus shifted to protecting vulnerable individuals involved. Growing movement for decriminalisation with proper regulation. Reflects more progressive, harm-reduction-based approach.
How have laws on vagrancy changed over time?
Vagrancy Act 1824 criminalised homelessness to clear streets of ‘undesirables’. Later fell into disuse as homelessness became more understood. Recently, prosecutions have increased despite continued public sympathy. Campaigns like Manchester’s ‘Big Sleep Out’ advocate for reform. Shows tension between outdated laws and evolving societal attitudes.
How have laws on homosexuality changed over time?
Once a criminal offence in the UK. Decriminalised in 1967 (age of consent: 21). Age of consent lowered to 18 (1994), then to 16 (2000). Civil partnerships legalised in 2004. Same-sex marriage legalised in 2014. Reflects growing secularism and social acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights.
How have laws on smoking changed over time?
Previously widely accepted—even promoted by doctors in the 1950s. Health Act 2006 banned smoking in public indoor spaces/workplaces. 2012: Ban on cigarette displays in large shops. 2015: Ban extended to all shops and smoking in cars with minors. Driven by stronger evidence of health risks and addiction.
How have laws on smoking cannabis changed in different places?
Illegal in England and Wales, though decriminalisation is being debated (especially for medical use). Law enforcement varies even within England (e.g., Durham vs. Cheshire or Gwent). Legal in some U.S. states (e.g., Illinois), but not others (e.g., Iowa). Legal for recreational and medicinal use in places like Portugal and the Netherlands. Differences often reflect regional priorities and local policing strategies. In the U.S., state laws depend on elected officials and voter preferences.
How have laws on jaywalking changed in different places?
Jaywalking is illegal in the U.S., Canada, Singapore, and Poland—especially in urban areas. No offence for jaywalking in the UK; considered a matter of personal responsibility. Laws reflect differing views on state vs. individual responsibility for safety. Geographic and urban differences also play a role—U.S. cities tend to be larger with wider roads, requiring stricter regulations. Highlights how the same action can be criminalised in one place and ignored in another.
How have laws on moral panics been applied differently according to circumstances?
During the 2011 London riots, theft offenders received harsher sentences due to widespread fear and government/media pressure. In the 1960s, “mods and rockers” also received harsher sentences following public disorder. Courts aimed to deter others by making an example. Chambliss: middle-class “saints” vs. working-class “roughnecks” — class bias affects sentencing. Piliavin: situational factors (class, ethnicity, age, attitude, time/place) influence arrest decisions.
How have laws on the age of criminal responsibility been applied differently according to circumstances?
Children below the age of criminal responsibility are treated more leniently. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the age is 10 — lowest in Europe. Most countries have separate youth courts; UK uses youth magistrates for ages 10–17. Youth courts are less formal and cannot impose prison sentences — use secure centres instead. Recognises that children may not fully understand their actions.
How have laws on homicide been applied differently according to circumstances?
Homicide Act 1957 and Coroners and Justice Act 2009 provide partial defences. Diminished responsibility: mental condition affecting judgment. Loss of control: triggered by fear or anger. These defences reduce the charge from murder to voluntary manslaughter. Law recognises mental and emotional circumstances in sentencing decisions.
