AC 1.2 Flashcards
What is a social construct?
An idea that has been created and accepted by the people in a society rather than simply occurring naturally.
What is the social construct of criminality?
The term ‘ social construction’ refers to something that has been made or defined by society so what counts as criminality is simply whichever acts a society defines as criminal so one society or culture can define a particular act as criminal and pass a law against it, while another sees nothing wrong with it.
How do laws change from culture to culture?
Polygamy, adultery, honour crimes and homosexuality
What is polygamy?
The practice of having more than one wife or one husband at the same time
What are the two forms of polygamy?
Polygyny- where a man may take two or more wives. Polyandry- where a woman may take two or more husbands.
Where is polygamy legal?
Polygyny is Legal in 58 countries. Polyandry is legal in a handful of countries mainly in the Himalayas. Polygamy is mostly legal in Muslim-majority countries.
Where is polygamy a crime?
Against the law in most countries, in the UK anyone who goes through a marriage ceremony while they are still married to someone else, is committing the crime of bigamy. you could get 7 years in prison, a fine or both.
Why does the law of polygamy vary?
Religion- the Qur’an permits Muslim men to take up to four wives this is reflected in most Muslim-majority countries. USA the Mormon church practiced polygamy until 1980 is continued illegally by branched off groups. Tradition- polygamy has traditionally been practiced in some African societies, though has sharply declined in recent decades.
What is adultery?
Adultery involves a sexual act between two people, one or both of whom is married to another person.
