Unit 4 - Social Conflict Theories

Question 1

Sratified Resources & Society

Answer 1

The unequal distribution of resources leads to inequalities in power, choice of strategies, attitudes towards the “system”, members of one’s own group & other groups.

Question 2

Lower Class Strategies

Answer 2

Individualistic strategies - rule breaking, apathy, cheating, withdrawal, collective protest, ostracizing upper class

Question 3

Middle Class Strategies

Answer 3

Inaction, don’t take sides, take the middle ground

Question 4

Upper Class Strategies

Answer 4

Strategies that emphasize group unity - preserve power through “law & order”, emphasize fairness & equality, prioritize social harmony, prioritize justice

Question 5

Affirmative Action

Answer 5

Policy designed to promote equal opportunities for historically minority groups, aims to reduce discrimination.

Question 6

Social Conflict Theories

Answer 6

Focus on:
- the government’s role in creating a criminogenic environment
- presence of bias
- relationship between personal and group power in formation of criminal law
- relationship between capitalist economy and crime

Question 7

Radical Criminology

Answer 7

Theory that crime is a result of social and economic inequality. Those in power empower the wealthy and press the poor. Focuses on how capitalism causes crime. The more power a group has, the more their views will be reflected by the law.

Question 8

Feminism

Answer 8

Ideology that women and men should have equal opportunities in society.

Question 9

Capitalism

Answer 9

Economic system based on private ownership. Motive to make profit.

Question 10

Criminogenic environment

Answer 10

A setting that increases the likelihood of criminal behaviour. Factors include poverty, lack of education, weak social institutions, exposure to violence.