Control Theories

Question 1

FUNCTIONALIST - What is the principle of Foucalt’s (1977) ‘Dynamic Theory of Social Construction’?

(3)

Answer 1

Favours ‘discipline’ in place of ‘control’.

Pre-modernity; discipline through physical punishment.
Post-modernity; subtle agents of control, emphasis on people policing themselves, reform schemes for offenders.

Likened this to ‘panopticon’.

Question 2

FUNCTIONALIST - Foucalt (1977) - what is ‘panopticon’?

2

Answer 2

Radical prison design where inmates can’t tell if they’re being observed.

Constant threat of punishment prevents criminal action.

Question 3

FUNCTIONALIST - Who outlines ‘A Dynamic Theory of Social Construction’ where post-modernity uses more subtle uses of punishment, likening it to ‘panopticon’?

Answer 3

Foucalt (1977)

Question 4

FUNCTIONALIST - What is the principle of Hirschi’s 4 Social Bonds?
(3)

Answer 4

Questions why people don’t commit crime.

Social bonds tie people to society, encouraging them to exercise self-restraint.

Individuals have 4 different strains of personality that allow this to happen. Good combinations mean you can exist as a responsible person.

Question 5

FUNCTIONALIST - Hirschi’s 4 Social Bonds - what are the 4 social bonds needed to exist as a responsible person?

Give examples.

Answer 5

Belief - religion

Attachment - friendship

Involvement - community events

Commitment - job

Question 6

What are the two FUNCTIONALIST control theories?

Answer 6

Hirschi’s 4 Social Bonds

Foucalt (1977) - ‘A Dynamic Theory of Social Construction’

Question 7

What are criticisms of FUNCTIONALIST control theories?

Answer 7

Herschi assumes criminals are committed to crimes & do it for a reason.

Doesn’t explain why people with good lives (white collar crime) commit crime - Marxism.