Crime Relaist Theories

Question 1

How do realists see crime

Answer 1

As a real problem to be tackled, and not just a social construction created by the control agencies. They focus on what is actually happening, the impact of crime on victims and local communities, and the development of practical policies to reduce crime.

Question 2

What do all realists argue (3)

Answer 2

• Argue that there has been a significant rise in the crime rate- especially in street crime, burglary and assault
• Are concerned about the widespread fear of crime and about the impact of crime on its victims
• Argue that other theories have failed to offer realistic solutions to the problem of crime and they propose what they regard as practical policies to reduce it

Question 3

What ideas do the right realists share

Answer 3

They share the NR or neo-conservative political outlook- they put a greater emphasis on on being tougher on the criminals rather than the causes

Question 4

What ideas do left realists share

Answer 4

They are socialists and favour different policies for example on reducing crime- they tend to take an approach of ‘tough on crime, and tough on the causes of crime’ and are generally linked to Labour party policies

Question 5

Who do right realists and left realists blame

Answer 5

They blame the individual lack of self-control for crime, while left realists blame structural inequalities

Question 6

What do right realists prioritise and what do left realists prioritise

Answer 6

Social order, achieved through a tough stance against offenders, whilst left realists prioritise justice, achieved through democratic policing and reforms to create greater equality