Unit 2 AC1.2 Explain the social construction of criminality Flashcards
What is polygamy?
Having more than one husband or wife at the same time. Includes polygyny, polyandry, and bigamy
Where is polygamy illegal?
Most countries.
Where is polygamy legal?
Mostly only in certain Muslim countries e.g. India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka
Why is polygamy legal in some countries?
The Qu’ran permits Muslim men to take up to 4 wives. Polygamy has traditionally been practiced in some African societies.
What are the laws on cannabis?
Laws vary widely – in general possession is treated more leniently than growing/supplying
Where is cannabis considered criminal?
UK – and many other European countries
Where has cannabis been legalized?
Legalized for medical use in Canada/some U.S. states. Decriminalized in Portugal.
Why is cannabis legal in some countries?
Societies with greater emphasis on personal freedoms are more likely to not see it as a criminal act.
Why do the laws on cannabis vary?
Decriminalization takes drugs out of the hands of criminals, while others see cannabis as a gateway drug and seek to control its use.
What is homosexuality?
Sexual acts between members of the same sex.
Where is homosexuality a crime?
75 countries outlaw male homosexuality. 45 outlaw lesbian activity. Some countries ban the promotion of homosexuality e.g., Russia.
Where is homosexuality legal?
UK, Europe, North and South America.
Why is homosexuality illegal in some places?
Religious reasons, public opinion, sexism.
What is adultery?
A sexual act between two people, one or both of whom are married to someone else.
Where is adultery a crime?
Many Muslim countries, some Christian African countries, 21 U.S. states.
Where is adultery legal?
Most countries, including the UK and India.
Why is adultery illegal in some countries?
Many religions condemn adultery, which can influence law-making.
What is polygyny?
When a man has more than one wife at a time.
What is polyandry?
When a woman has more than one husband at a time.
What is bigamy?
An offense in the UK – being married to more than one person at the same time. Punishable by up to 7 years in prison/fine/both.
What is decriminalization?
When the laws are relaxed so that punishments for a particular act are much less severe.
What is legalization?
When a law is passed to make a particular act no longer a crime.
What is a gateway drug?
A drug such as cannabis which may lead users to try stronger drugs in the future.
What is a social construction?
Something that has been made or defined by society rather than occurring naturally.
