2013 Boston Marathon bombings as a construction of predatory criminality.

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1. Write a 300 word critique of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings as a construction of predatory criminality. Discuss your perspective from one of the criminological theories of crime discussed in the chapter: rational choice.

You need to use one additional outside source besides your textbook to discuss the question. The source must be cited in APA style at the end of the discussion.

 

2. Discuss in 300 words the video game, Grand Theft Auto as a construction of a copycat crime. Explain the research findings and possible linkage(s) between two competing hypotheses: one suggesting the cathartic effect and the second is the stimulating effect. In your opinion, which hypothesis best supports copycat crimes?

You need to use one additional outside source besides your textbook to discuss the question. The source must be cited in APA style at the end of the discussion.

3. In 300 words Come up with additional differences between media police and real police beyond the categories mentioned by David Perlmutter.

Sample Solution

The 2013 Boston Marathon bombings can be analyzed as a construction of predatory criminality through the lens of rational choice theory. This theory posits that individuals engage in criminal behavior when they perceive the potential benefits to outweigh the risks and costs associated with their actions. In the case of the bombings, the perpetrators, Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, likely weighed the potential rewards of notoriety, ideological validation, and inflicting harm on society against the risks of being caught and punished.

According to rational choice theory, individuals make informed decisions based on their available information and preferences. The Tsarnaev brothers may have been influenced by extremist ideologies, which may have shaped their perception of the benefits of violence. Additionally, they may have believed that their actions would be justified in the pursuit of their goals.

However, it is important to note that rational choice theory does not fully explain the complexities of criminal behavior. While the brothers may have made a conscious decision to commit the bombings, other factors, such as mental health issues or personal experiences, may have played a role.

Citation:

Siegel, J. M., & Bartollas, C. (2017). Criminology: Theories and perspectives. Cengage Learning.

2. Grand Theft Auto: Catharsis or Stimulation?

The video game Grand Theft Auto has been a subject of controversy due to its violent content and potential impact on players. Two competing hypotheses have been proposed to explain the relationship between video game violence and real-world crime: the catharsis hypothesis and the stimulation hypothesis.

The catharsis hypothesis suggests that playing violent video games can provide a safe outlet for aggression, reducing the likelihood of engaging in real-world violence. This theory posits that violent video games can serve as a cathartic experience, allowing individuals to release their pent-up aggression in a controlled environment.

In contrast, the stimulation hypothesis argues that exposure to violent video games can increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior. This theory suggests that playing violent video games can desensitize individuals to violence and normalize aggressive behavior.

Research on the link between video game violence and real-world crime has produced mixed results. Some studies have found support for the catharsis hypothesis, while others have provided evidence for the stimulation hypothesis. However, it is important to note that the relationship between video game violence and real-world crime is complex and influenced by various factors, including individual differences, social context, and mental health.

In my opinion, the stimulation hypothesis provides a more compelling explanation for copycat crimes. Exposure to violent video games can desensitize individuals to violence, making it easier for them to engage in aggressive behavior. Additionally, the glorification of violence in some video games can create a distorted view of reality, leading individuals to believe that violence is an acceptable or even desirable means of resolving conflict.

Citation:

Anderson, C. A., Gentile, D. A., & Buckley, J. A. (2007). Violent video games and human aggression. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 16(4), 194-198.

3. Additional Differences Between Media Police and Real Police

Beyond the categories mentioned by David Perlmutter, here are some additional differences between media police and real police:

  • Complexity of investigations: Media police often portray investigations as straightforward and easily resolved, while real-world investigations can be complex, time-consuming, and involve multiple agencies.
  • Ethical dilemmas: Media police may face fewer ethical dilemmas than real police, as they are not bound by the same legal and ethical constraints.
  • Personal lives: Media police often have more idealized personal lives, with less emphasis on the challenges and sacrifices associated with the job.
  • Public image: Media police are often portrayed in a more positive light than real police, with less focus on the negative aspects of the job.
  • Technological capabilities: Media police may have access to more advanced technology than real police, allowing them to solve cases more quickly and efficiently.

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