Criminology - Outcome 1
What is the legal definition of crime?
An act that breaks the law and is punishable by the state.
Give an example of a crime under the legal definition.
Theft, assault, or murder
How are laws made in the UK?
Laws are made in Parliament through the passing of bills, which must be approved by the House of Commons, House of Lords, and then receive Royal Assent.
What is Actus Reus?
The guilty act — the physical element of a crime.
What is Mens Rea?
The guilty mind with the mental intent to commit the crime.
What is the social definition of crime?
Behaviour that violates social norms or moral codes, even if not illegal.
Example of social definition of crime?
Swearing loudly in public, cheating on a partner, queue-jumping.
What is deviance?
Behaviour that goes against social norms or expectations.
How can deviance vary?
It depends on culture, time, place, and social group.
Name two theories that help us understand criminal behaviour.
Labelling Theory (Howard S. Becker): people become criminals when labelled as such.
Deviancy amplification (Stanley Cohen): Deviancy amplification theory is when social reaction and media attention make deviance grow instead of stop.
What is the difference between legal and social definitions of crime?
Legal focuses on law-breaking; social focuses on norm-breaking.
Why is the distinction between legal and social definitions of crime important?
Some acts are illegal but not socially disapproved (e.g., speeding), and some are socially disapproved but not illegal (e.g., adultery).
Give an example of a law that changed over time.
Homosexuality — illegal in the UK until 1967, now legal.
Another example of law changing over time?
Cannabis use — legal in some countries but illegal in the UK.
How can culture affect crime definitions?
In some cultures, arranged marriage is normal, while in others it could be seen as forced marriage (illegal).
Another example how culture can affect crime definitions?
Alcohol consumption — legal in the UK, banned in some Muslim countries.