Right Realist Theories Of Crime Flashcards
Do right realists see crime as beneficial? Why?
No. Crime undermines social cohesion and community.
Why do right realists see crime as inevitable?
Humans are naturally inclined to be criminal due to our instinctive sense of individuality and selfishness
List five key sociologists of the right realist perspective on crime.
Murray, Marsland, Clarke, Felson, William/Kelly
What is the underclass?
A group of deviant individuals who do not abide by mainstream values of society.
How is the deviant underclass culture transmitted through generations?
Through socialisation
One reason why the underclass are more likely to commit crime?
In the underclass, lone parenthood is common. Children without fathers suffer from a lack of disappoint making a life of crime more likely.
What is marsland explanation for the underclass?
The state is responsible for the formation of the deviant underclass as the over subscription of welfare undermined important values of commitment and work ethic.
Who argues the rational choice theory?
Clarke
Briefly explain the rational choice theory.
The choice to commit a crime is based on the rational calculation of likely consequences. If the rewards of a crime are seen to outweigh the consequences criminals are more likely to reoffend
Who argues the routine activity theory?
Felson
Briefly explain the routine activity theory
In order for a crime to occur there news to be three things: a target, a motivated offender and the absence of authority. In order for crime to be wiped out one of these elements must be tackled.
Who argues the zero tolerance theory?
William and kelly
Briefly explain the zero tolerance theory
Revolves around a tough stance with small offences. The idea that small crimes lead to social disorder is called the broken window thesis which argues that if small crimes such as vandalism are prosecuted and fixed quickly it will send out a stern message that crime is not tolerated.
Give two examples of how right realist approaches have been politically significant?
The routine activity theory has initiated the mass use of CCTV in order for there to be authority everywhere. Zero tolerance theory was used most evidently after the 2011 London riots. Whereby people were being imprisoned for very small crimes.
Evaluate the right realist approach
It recognises how minor crimes can turn into major crimes. It addresses immediate causes for crime.
Ignores white collar and corporate crimes.
Overstates rationality of criminals
