define crime, its relationship to law,and two most common models of how society determines which acts are criminal.
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Crime can be defined as any behavior or action that is considered by society to be harmful or disruptive and is prohibited by law. It typically involves the violation of established rules or regulations that are put in place to maintain order and protect individuals and property within a particular society.
The relationship between crime and law is essential because laws are established to define and regulate what is classified as a criminal act. Laws are created by governments and legislatures to set clear boundaries and standards of behavior that are generally accepted within a society. When an individual commits a crime, they are breaking these established laws and are subject to legal consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or probation.
In terms of how society determines which acts are criminal, there are two common models:
1. Consensus model: In this model, society as a whole agrees on what behaviors or actions should be considered criminal. It assumes that there is a general consensus or agreement on what is right or wrong, and laws are created based on this consensus. The laws reflect the shared values and beliefs of the majority, and acts that deviate from these established norms are designated as criminal.
2. Conflict model: In contrast to the consensus model, the conflict model suggests that different groups within society have conflicting interests and values. Each group strives to influence the legislation to serve their own interests and protect their power. Therefore, the determination of what acts are considered criminal is shaped by the continuous struggle between these influential groups, and criminal laws are seen as a tool used by those in power to maintain control and suppress dissent.
These models provide different perspectives on how crime is defined and how the criminal justice system operates within a society. Both models recognize the importance of societal norms and the role of law in controlling and addressing criminal behavior.