Marxist criminology views crime and deviance through the lens of class conflict and capitalist society's inherent inequalities. It argues that capitalism fosters a criminogenic environment, leading to a range of crimes from white-collar to corporate malfeasance. The legal system is seen as protecting bourgeois interests, often at the expense of the disadvantaged. Developments in Marxist criminology and its intersection with feminist perspectives are also discussed, alongside critiques of its economic determinism.
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Marxist criminology interprets societal dynamics through the lens of power disparities and class struggles
Criminogenic Nature of Capitalism
The capitalist system is seen as fostering a climate where competition, avarice, and exploitation flourish, leading individuals to engage in criminal behavior
Range of Crimes Under Capitalism
The relentless drive for financial gain under capitalism can result in a spectrum of crimes, including white-collar offenses and corporate malfeasance
According to Marxist theory, the legal system is designed to protect and reinforce the interests of the capitalist ruling class, resulting in biased enforcement and minimal oversight of elite activities
Marxist criminology is criticized for downplaying the role of gender oppression perpetuated by the capitalist system, particularly against working-class women
Overemphasis on Economic Factors
Critics argue that Marxist criminology can be overly deterministic, attributing too much to economic factors while neglecting other dimensions of social inequality
Lack of Prescriptive Solutions
While adept at critiquing the capitalist system, Marxist criminology offers limited guidance on practical alternatives or solutions to the problems it identifies
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______ perspectives on crime view societal dynamics through power disparities and class struggles.
Marxist
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Capitalism and private property - Marxist critique
Private ownership under capitalism leads to exploitation and social inequality, fostering conditions for crime.
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Capitalism's profit motive - Crime catalyst
The capitalist imperative for profit can drive individuals and corporations to commit economic crimes like tax evasion.
