Marxism
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 10.1.3
Marxism
Marxists discuss the concept of criminogenic capitalism, this means that crime is inevitable in a capitalist society and all social classes are committing crime.
Box
- Marxists such as Box claim that the law is written by the bourgeoisie and therefore only reflects their interests.
- This is referred to as ideological law making.
Chambliss
- Chambliss claims that the criminal justice system disproportionately focuses on the actions of the proletariat in order to control their actions.
- On the other hand, the bourgeoisie’s acts are ignored this is known as selective law enforcement.
False class consciousness
- Marxists argue the law can be useful in maintaining false class consciousness.
- At times, the bourgeoisie will allow laws that seem to help the proletariat such as the minimum wage and health and safety regulations in the workplace.
The caring face of capitalism
- However, Pearce claims these laws are rarely enforced and usually benefit the bourgeoisie as a healthy and happy workforce is more productive and obedient, this is referred to as the caring face of capitalism.