Social Reaction Theories and Critical Theory
Reading 5.12
Unlike other theories, social reaction theories focus on those who label react and attempt to control criminal offenders and how this influences further criminal behavior. Critical theories are rooted in the thoughts of Karl Marx and look at the fusion between power and inequality. Critical theories attempt to explain criminality as a result of inequality and attempt to influence policies directed and creating equality to curb crime. This reading will introduce you to both of these schools of thought.