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Questions and Answers
What is the primary motivation for crimes committed by the bourgeoisie according to Marxism?
What is the primary motivation for crimes committed by the bourgeoisie according to Marxism?
How does neo-Marxism differ from traditional Marxism in its understanding of criminal behavior?
How does neo-Marxism differ from traditional Marxism in its understanding of criminal behavior?
According to postmodernist theories, how is crime viewed in relation to societal norms?
According to postmodernist theories, how is crime viewed in relation to societal norms?
What aspect of crime does postmodernism focus on that differs from traditional theories?
What aspect of crime does postmodernism focus on that differs from traditional theories?
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In Marxist theory, how are laws perceived in relation to the ruling class?
In Marxist theory, how are laws perceived in relation to the ruling class?
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Study Notes
Marxism
- Marxism argues both classes commit crime, but working-class crimes are resistance to injustice
- White-collar crimes by the bourgeoisie are driven by greed and maintaining power
- Selective law enforcement: harsher punishments for the working class
- Laws protect the ruling class and disguise exploitation
Neo-Marxism
- Inspired by Marxism, arguing social structures cause criminal behavior, but individual choice is involved
- Crime is a form of resistance to inequality, stemming from class conflict
- Individuals commit crime to display a reaction to capitalistic structures
- Cohen argues that in capitalist societies, freedom allows individuals to move between classes
Postmodernist Theories
- Crime is a social construct, with legal definitions not reflective of all social groups' understandings of acceptability
- Postmodernists see criminal behaviors as fluid and subjective based on varying societal values
- Crime is an individual act, driven by choice and feelings
- Postmodernism rejects fixed identities and sees identities as fluid
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Description
Explore the theories of crime through Marxism, Neo-Marxism, and Postmodernist perspectives. This quiz covers the way these theories interpret the relationship between crime, social class, and societal structures. Test your understanding of how various theorists view crime as a social construct or resistance to inequality.
