Name That Theory
This theory says crime comes from class inequality and capitalism
Marxist criminology
Fear of losing your career =
Commitment
“Crime is shaped by class inequality”
Marx
Workers laid off → turn to illegal markets
Structural inequality (Marxist)
Why do left realists reject “crime as resistance”?
It harms marginalized communities
This theory focuses on real harm to working-class victims
Left realism
Time spent in structured activities =
Involvement
“Crime requires no explanation—conformity does”
Control theory
Person says “everyone cheats”
Neutralization
Main difference: Marxism vs conflict theory
Marxism = economic/class focus
This theory says laws reflect power, not consensus
Conflict theory
Belief that inequality is your fault =
False consciousness
“People justify behavior after the fact”
Matza
Weak parenting → impulsive crime
Self-control theory
Why isn’t control theory about motivation?
It assumes motivation already exists
This theory asks: “Why don’t people commit crime?”
Control theory
Owners keeping profit from workers =
Surplus value / exploitation
“Capitalism promotes egoism”
Bonger
Two cultures disagree → behavior criminalized
Culture conflict
Why does capitalism increase crime (Marxist view)?
Inequality + blocked opportunities
This theory says people drift between crime and conformity
Drift theory (Matza)
Excuses like “no one got hurt” =
Neutralization
“Crime policies must address real victims now”
Left realists
Corporate crime ignored, street crime punished
Conflict theory / Bonger
Best integrated explanation of crime?
Combination of:
Social bonds
Self-control
Drift/neutralization