Social Construction of Criminality- culture Flashcards
What does “crime is a social construction” mean?
Something that has been made or defined by society rather than simply occurring naturally
So criminality is simply whichever act a society defines as criminal
where is adultery a crime
Most societies that criminalise adultery are Muslim-majority countries
although several Christian-majority countries in Africa make adultery a criminal offence. Punishment varies widely, from stoning to death to caning to a fine.
Several Christian-majority countries in Africa also make adultery a criminal offence.
How many countries have laws against male homosexuality?
72 countries
Female homosexuality is illegal in 45 countries.
What can be the consequence of homosexual acts in six countries?
Conviction can result in the death penalty
What is the punishment for cannabis use in the UK?
5 years in prison
In which country was adultery a crime until 2018?
India
In which regions is homosexuality legal?
UK, Europe, North and South America
What is a common reason for the criminalization of homosexuality in some countries?
Religion- any religions, including Christianity, Islam and Judaism, have traditionally condemned homosexuality.
Many religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, have traditionally condemned homosexuality.
What societal factor influences public opinion on homosexuality bans?
Higher levels of support for bans in countries where religion has a strong influence
What is a reason for the difference in criminalization between male and female homosexuality?
Sexism- The fact that male homosexuality is a crime in more countries than lesbianism is, may be due to sexist assumptions by male lawmakers that women were incapable of same-sex attraction.
Male lawmakers may have sexist assumptions that women are incapable of same-sex attraction.
Why do many religions condemn adultery?
Not committing adultery is one of the 10 commandments shared by Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
How are adultery laws often characterized in societies with a subordinate position of women?
They are often unequal
In societies[portugal] why is drug use legal
Different norms and values -societies with an emphasis on individual freedoms may see drug use as victimless or as an individual’s right to do as they wish with their body.
What stance do some societies take towards cannabis use?
Legalisation or decriminalisation
This is seen as a way to reduce harm by enabling users to get help.
What is one argument for taking a tough stance on drug use?
To deter their use
What is polygamy?
The practice of marrying multiple spouses
Fill in the blank: female homosexuality is illegal in _______ countries.
45
Fill in the blank: The punishment for adultery varies widely, from stoning to death, to caning, to a _______.
fine
why do different cultures have different laws around homosexuality
Public opinion -higher levels of support for bans on homosexuality in some countries. Some of these are countries where religion has a strong influence
where is polygamy illegal
Most western countries e.g the united kingdom - 7 years in prison - bigamy
where is polygamy legal
Polygyny is legal In 58 countries
Polyandry is only in a handful of countries like Himalayas
why do different cultures have different laws around polygamy
Religious reasons -the Qur’an permits Muslim men to take up to four wives and this is reflected in the laws of most Muslim-majority countries.
In the USA, the Mormon Church practised polygamy until 1890 and it continues to be practiced illegally by some branched-off groups.
Tradition- Polygamy has traditionally been practised in some African Societies, though it has sharply declined in recent decades.
