Week 8: Realism Flashcards
What is realism?
Realism emphasizes practical, evidence-based approaches to addressing crime, focusing on real-world solutions and improvements rather than abstract theories. Realists aim for visible progress and are willing to work within the existing system to achieve their goals
What is left realism?
understands crime as resulting from structural inequalities and considers that traditional criminology focuses insufficiently on addressing root causes, seeks practical ways of addressing crime rates within the existing system, and focuses mostly on street crime
What are some of left realist solutions to crime?
longer-term efforts within the existing system, targeted interventions at risk groups, acknowledging problems within the criminal justice system, the importance of victim’s experiences
What is right realism?
politically conservative, characterized by a focus on addressing crime rates not the underlying causes of crime, individual responsibility, punishment, etc.
What is relative deprivation?
being deprived of something to which one believes they are entitled, especially when compared to others
W.G. Runciman’s Relative Deprivation and Social Justice (1966)
provides a framework for understanding how perceptions of inequality and injustice can lead to feelings of grievance and strain, thereby increasing the likelihood of criminal behavior. This helps explain why crime can rise even when overall economic conditions improve, as long as relative inequalities and perceptions of unfairness persist
What is political marginalization?
blocked access to participation in political processes, decision-making, and power structures. This impacts perceptions of trust and legitimacy of institutions of the state and can result in criminal challenges to and clashes with authorities
What is the square of crime?
in order to understand and tackle crime, you need to understand how each corner of the square acts and reacts in the situation, and in regards to each other. The framework calls for a balanced and integrated approach to crime prevention and intervention, addressing the needs and roles of all stakeholder involved
What is the rational choice theory?
criminal behavior is a matter of choice and designed to maximize personal advantage, it is self-interested
What is community policing?
evidence-based deployment of policing resources, prevention and early intervention, addressing community-specific causes, building trust and accountability
What is the broken windows theory?
minor signs of social disorder combined with low formal and informal social control can lead to more significant problems if not addressed. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining order through policing of minor offenses and community engagement to prevent a cycle of decline and to maintain a safe environment
What is environmental crime prevention?
influenced by the broken windows theory, strategies designed to maintain order and prevent crime by addressing minor offenses and signs of disorder. ex) zero tolerance policy or curfews
What is the underclass theory?
developed by Charles Murray, suggests that a distinct social group characterized by long-term unemployment and welfare dependency has emerged. This underclass creates a criminogenic subculture that has higher rates of crime and antisocial behavior. Murray’s theory advocates for welfare reform and the promotion of traditional family structures to address these issues
What is situational crime prevention?
reducing opportunities for crime through surveillance (CCTV) and securitization (gated communities)
What is the displacement theory?
the idea that efforts to prevent crime in one area can lead to the movement of crime to another area, rather than reducing the overall level of crime. Types of displacement: spatial, temporal, target, tactical, and functional
