The American Dream
What are the three key principles of the American Dream?
Freedom, Equality, Pursuit of Happiness
What does "mass incarceration" mean?
A very high number of people in prison, especially in the U.S.
What is a felony?
A serious crime, usually punishable by prison for more than a year
What is the "presumption of innocence"?
The principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty in court
Who is the author of The Talented Mr. Ripley?
Patricia Highsmith
What document states that "all men are created equal"?
Declaration of Independence
What is a "three-strikes law"?
A law that imposes harsher sentences after a person commits three serious crimes
What is parole?
The release of a prisoner before the full sentence is served, under supervision
What is the difference between jail and prison?
Jail is for short-term detention, often before trial; Prison is for long-term sentences after conviction
What is Tom Ripley’s main motivation for his crimes?
He wants to escape poverty and live a luxurious life by impersonating Dickie Greenleaf
What does "social mobility" mean?
The ability to move up or down the social and economic ladder
What is "stand your ground" law?
A law that allows people to use force in self-defense without retreating first
What is the difference between burglary and robbery?
Burglary: entering a building illegally to commit a crime; Robbery: stealing from someone using force or threats
What is restorative justice?
A system focused on rehabilitation and reconciliation between offender and victim
How does Tom Ripley kill Dickie Greenleaf?
He beats him to death with an oar while they are on a boat in Italy
What is the "American Dream" in one sentence
The belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work, regardless of background
What is the main purpose of "zero tolerance policies"?
To enforce strict punishment for crimes, no matter the circumstances
What is cybercrime?
A crime that involves computers or the internet, like hacking or identity theft
What is forensic science used for in criminal investigations?
To analyze physical evidence, such as fingerprints or DNA, to solve crimes
What is the main theme of The Talented Mr. Ripley?
Identity, deception, and the morality of ambition
What is the difference between the "melting pot" and the "salad bowl" metaphor?
Melting pot: assimilation into one culture; Salad bowl: coexistence of diverse cultures without losing identity
Name two common forms of white-collar crime.
Fraud, insider trading, tax evasion, etc.
What does "recidivism" mean?
The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend after being released
Name one famous wrongful conviction case in the U.S.
The Central Park Five / Exonerated Five
How does Tom manage to avoid getting caught at the end of the novel?
He forges letters, manipulates evidence, and eliminates people who suspect him, ensuring no clear proof exists against him