Explain the social construction of criminality Flashcards
What is the definition of adultery?
When two people have sexual relations when one or both are married to other people
What is Adultery’s legality in the UK?
It is not considered to be a criminal offence but it may have legal consequences such as a divorce
Where is adultery legal?
In the UK and European countries
Where is adultery illegal?
- countries governed by Islamic law such as Saudi Arabia
- almost half of the states in the USA consider it a crime but only as a minor offence
Why does the legality of Adultery vary in different cultures?
- religion, the Bible states that adultery is a sin
- may relate to the status of women who are owned by their husbands and could be treated as property
What is the definition of honour crimes?
Crimes where the accused have brought shame on their family such as by refusing to enter an arranged marriage
What is honour crimes legality in the UK?
These actions are crimes and if a killing is involved it is murder
Where is honour crime legal?
Most honour crimes take place within Asian and Middle Eastern families
Where is honour crime illegal?
In the UK, Europe, USA, Pakistan, etc…
Why does the legality of honour crimes vary in different cultures?
Such crimes are thought to have originated from tribal customs, where the allegation against a woman can damage a families reputation
What is the definition of homosexuality?
sexual attraction between people of the same sex
What is homosexuality’s legality in the UK?
Once it was illegal but was decriminalised in 1967 with age consent, initially civil partnerships and same-sex marriages can also take place
Where is homosexuality legal?
In the UK, Europe, USA and Canada
Where is homosexuality illegal?
India, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Yemen and Nigeria
Why does the legality of homosexuality vary in different cultures?
- religion, for example the Bible says that it is a sin
- in some cultures it is against the norms which results in intolerance or prejudice