1. 7.4

2. Conflict Theory & Deviance
Deviance is seen as a threat to those in power
Deviance undermines control
Defense against deviance
Anyone who criticizes society are labeled as deviants – they question those in control
The unemployed are deviants – a healthy society has a willing workforce
Vandals are deviant – property of the rich is destroyed
Those that are disrespectful are deviant – respect indicates power and authority
Certain activities are encouraged (sports) – these activities promote societal values

3. Crime and Race Minorities are treated more harshly than Whites
12% of total population is black; 43% of prison population is black
50% of homicide victims are Black; majority of death row prisoners murdered a Caucasian
Harsher punishments pursued when victim is White

4. Crime and Race Why are minorities treated differently?
Cannot afford adequate legal representation
Victim discounting
The interests of minorities and the lower class are not as important than that of the rich and powerful
Minorities are not as “valuable” as Caucasians, so a crime against a minority is not as serious, so the punishment is less severe

5. White Collar Crime
Job-related crimes committed by people with a high status
Happens in the business and political worlds
Can place lives of workers at risk
Costs millions of dollars
Punished leniently (compared to street crime)
Examples:
Pension fraud
Embezzlement
Political bribery