Right Realism and Crime Flashcards
What is Realist Criminology?
Realist theories see crime as a real problem that needs to be solved.
They are not as concerned with how it is socially constructed.
What is Right Realism?
Right Realism, linked to Margaret Thatcher’s right-wing neoliberal government (1979), views individuals as responsible for crime and advocates for tough measures to reduce it. It sees street crime as a growing issue and prioritizes practical solutions, emphasizing control and punishment over rehabilitation or addressing social causes like poverty.
What are the Right Realism theories that are associated with crime?
-Rational Choice Theory
-The ‘underclass’ theory (Charles Murray).
-‘Broken Windows’ theory (Wilson & Kelling, 1982).
-Biological differences between individuals.
What is Rational Choice Theory?
Right Realism assumes individuals have free will and make rational choices. People commit crimes when the rewards outweigh the risks. High crime rates occur when the perceived risk is low, reinforcing the need for stricter deterrents.
What is Routine Activities Theory developed by Cohen and Felson in 1979?
argue that crime occurs when three factors align: a motivated offender, an available target, and a lack of capable guardians (e.g., police or parents). Crime is seen as opportunistic, increasing when opportunities arise in daily routines. However, a key issue is displacement—if crime is deterred in one area, offenders may simply shift to another location with weaker targets.
What is the Underclass Theory developed by Charles Murray?
Right Realists view the nuclear family as essential for proper socialization, teaching self-control and values that prevent crime. Murray argues that generous welfare benefits have led to a rise in lone-parent families, undermining paternal responsibility. This has created an “underclass” dependent on welfare, with poor socialization leading to increased crime. Lacking father figures, young males seek status through delinquent role models rather than stable jobs, failing to develop self-control or a sense of right and wrong.
What is the Broken Windows Theory developed by James Q. Wilson and George Kelling’s ( 1982)?
Right Realists argue that ignoring minor crimes leads to more serious crime. The ‘Broken Windows’ theory suggests that visible signs of disorder—like vandalism, graffiti, and littering—signal a lack of social control. If left unaddressed, it creates an environment where crime flourishes, as it appears no one cares.
What is meant by Biological differences by right realists Wilson and Herrnstein (1985)?
Wilson and Herrnstein (1985) argue that biological differences make some individuals more likely to commit crime. Traits like aggressiveness, risk-taking, and low intelligence increase criminal predisposition, making some people naturally more prone to offending.
