Left realism approaches to crime

Question 1

What are the three left realist theories in the committing of crime?

Answer 1

Subculture theory, Relative deprivation, Marginalisation

Question 2

Who established the three left realist theories?

Answer 2

Lea and Young (1984)

Question 3

What did Runciman (1966) say about relative deprivation?

Answer 3

it is awareness of poverty and deprivation, not the actual concepts themselves, that cause social unrest

Question 4

Explain the left realist theory of subculture

Answer 4

that certain beliefs and values can lead to crime and may consist of people who are blocked off from success. However, unlike Marxists, is not seen as direct rebellion to capitalism. too generalised, arguably the weakest.

Question 5

Explain the left realist theory of relative deprivation

Answer 5

awareness of poverty and power, rather than the actual concepts themselves, cause revolutionary snetiments amongst people, e.g. the 1980’s compared to the 1930’s. this explains working class crime well but doesn’t go beyond that.

Question 6

What do left realists see as the key to solving crime?

Answer 6

Increasing equality of opportunity, also more compassionate policing to improve relations with minorities