Marxism, Class & Crime

Question 1

What type of theory is Marxism?

Answer 1

As a structural theory that sees society as a structure in which the economic base determines the shape of the superstructure, which is made up of all other social institutions, including the state, the law and the criminal justice system.

Question 2

What do Marxist believe is the function of social institutions?

Answer 2

To serve the ruling-class interests and maintain the capitalist economy.

Question 3

What do Marxists agree with labelling theory on?

Answer 3

That the law is enforced disproportionately against the working-class and that therefore official crime statistics cannot be taken at face value.