Right Realism

Question 1

Where is it from

Answer 1

-Functionalism/NR
- has an inherently pessimistic view, arguing individuals are always responsible for crime

Question 2

Features of RR

Answer 2

• value consensus and shared morality should underpin society
• crime will always exist

Question 3

RR causes of crime

Answer 3

• biology: men have higher test —> competitive —> crime
• importance of socialisation: poor socialisation —>
• rational choice: people commit crimes as they view the rewards as greater than the risks, as people are selfish

Question 4

How RR address crime

Answer 4

• harsh punishment to deter others and show the right way
• heavier policing and consequences
• (May, 2012): “hostile environment” immigration policy —> outwardly highlights people who are in the “wrong”
• zero tolerance policing —> “broken windows” theory outlines that damage to the environment signifies there is a lack of care —> low level deviance which they want to cut out at the root

Question 5

Cornish & Clarke

Answer 5

• support “rational choice theory” and advocate for heavy policing and punishments making examples of criminals who have made the choice to commit crime

Question 6

Strengths of RR

Answer 6

No tolerance measures (from broken glass theory) positively impacted American policy —> crime rates down 50% 1993-96 in NYC

Question 7

Criticising RR

Answer 7

• the policies in NYC led to big rises in US prison populations (drain on resources)
• displacement theory: cracking down on crime in one area means it moves to different places
• some crimes are just irrational (crimes of passion)