AGENDA Introduce “Critical Theory” Watch a PBS movie Do a group exercise Go home or to next class

Can’t we all just get along? Critical Theories Can’t we all just get along?

Critical Theories in Context In 1950-1960s = strain Policy = provide opportunity to those who lack means for achieving legitimate success. Turmoil of 1960s  criminologists become more skeptical Politicians and other interests groups lack will to make real changes Cloward and Ohlin story Many groups actively oppose providing opportunities

Consensus vs. Conflict Law reflect shared belief about what is wrong Law resolves conflicts and maintains order The state is “neutral” Bias is temporary and unintentional Law is an end process in a conflict over values Bias is built into the law (winners punish losers) The state (CJS) responds to the needs of those in power (not neutral) Consensus Conflict

Critical Theory Central Themes Emphasis on “inequality” and “power” Crime as “political” concept CJS serves interests of powerful Solution to crime is more equitable society EXPLANATION OF LAW and CJ SYSTEM rather than crime

Critical Theories are Best as “Big Picture” theories Why are some things defined as “criminal” whereas others are seen as “poor judgment” or “bad,” but not really criminal? The Housing Bubble and Great Recession as an example PBS Frontline