Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which theory emphasizes the role of dominant groups in shaping public policy and law?
Which theory emphasizes the role of dominant groups in shaping public policy and law?
Informal mechanisms of social control are administered solely by the legal system.
Informal mechanisms of social control are administered solely by the legal system.
False
What is the primary function of laws according to the Functionalist Theory?
What is the primary function of laws according to the Functionalist Theory?
To promote greater public welfare.
Group and culture conflict is an explanation of ________ and criminal behavior.
Group and culture conflict is an explanation of ________ and criminal behavior.
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Match the following theories with their key ideas:
Match the following theories with their key ideas:
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Study Notes
Conflict Theory Overview
- Society is structured by competing groups with differing values and ideals.
- Dominant groups exert control over societal structures.
- Subordinate groups may adhere to their own norms, but potentially face consequences if they differ from dominant group norms.
- This group and cultural conflict influences law, crime, and criminal justice systems.
- Mechanisms exist for controlling deviation and promoting conformity.
- Informal mechanisms (family, friends) implement socialization to shape values and norms.
- Formal mechanisms (the law) are also used.
Two Competing Theories
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Consensus Theory (Durkheim, Sumner, Weber)
- Laws represent societal agreements and shared values.
- Laws reflect widely accepted folkways and mores.
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Functionalist Theory (Trevino)
- Law promotes public welfare by resolving disputes, regulating, and controlling crime symbolically.
Dominant Groups and Criminal Definitions
- Dominant groups shape public policy, law, and enforcement.
- Criminal definitions reflect conflicts between dominant and subordinate groups' values.
- The creation, breaking, and enforcement of laws directly reflect power struggles.
Social Characteristics and Influence
- Social characteristics (sex, race, age, social class) and social position (education, occupation, political stance) affect influence.
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Description
Explore the key concepts of conflict theory in this quiz. Understand how societal structures influence law and criminal justice systems through the lens of competing groups and their values. Delve into the dynamics between dominant and subordinate groups and the implications for social norms.
