White-Collar Crime

White-collar crime is a crime committed by a person of respectability and high social status in the course of their occupation. It is often nonviolent and involves deception or concealment. Some examples of white-collar crime include fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and money laundering.

Classical Criminology

Classical criminology is a theory of crime that focuses on the individual’s free will and rational choice. According to classical criminology, people commit crimes because they believe that the benefits of crime outweigh the risks. The risks of crime include punishment, disapproval from others, and loss of opportunities. The benefits of crime include financial gain, power, or pleasure.

Positive Criminology

Positive criminology is a theory of crime that focuses on the individual’s biological, psychological, or social factors that may contribute to crime. Some examples of positive factors that may contribute to crime include mental illness, substance abuse, poverty, and lack of education.

The Power of Labeling

Labeling theory is a theory of crime that argues that the way that people are labeled can affect their behavior. When people are labeled as criminals, they may start to think of themselves as criminals and act accordingly. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where people who are labeled as criminals are more likely to commit crimes.

Differences Between White-Collar and Street Crime

There are several key differences between white-collar crime and street crime. First, white-collar crime is often nonviolent, while street crime is often violent. Second, white-collar crime is typically committed by people of high social status, while street crime is typically committed by people of low social status. Third, white-collar crime is often difficult to detect and prosecute, while street crime is often easier to detect and prosecute.

Are Labels Ever Desirable?

Labels can be desirable in some cases. For example, a person who is labeled as a “hero” may be more likely to help others in the future. However, labels can also be harmful in some cases. For example, a person who is labeled as a “criminal” may be more likely to commit crimes in the future.

Non-Criminal Labels That Might Impact a Person’s Likelihood to Commit Crime

There are several non-criminal labels that might impact a person’s likelihood to commit crime. For example, a person who is labeled as a “loser” or a “failure” may be more likely to commit crimes. This is because they may feel like they have nothing to lose. Additionally, a person who is labeled as a “victim” may be more likely to commit crimes. This is because they may feel like they have been wronged and that they need to get revenge.