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Josh studies a group of people for a period of one year and concludes that the cause of crimes among the group was due to the uneven distribution of wealth among them. In this case, Josh's conclusion most closely relates to which sociological explanation of crime?

a) Psychological theories of crime.
b) Social structure theories of crime.
c) Biological theories of crime.
d) Cultural deviance theories of crime.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Josh's study, which concludes that crime is caused by the uneven distribution of wealth, aligns with social structure theories of crime, specifically social disorganization and conflict theory. The correct option is b.

Step-by-step explanation:

Josh's conclusion that the cause of crimes among a group of people was due to the uneven distribution of wealth is most closely related to social structure theories of crime.

Social structure theories, such as social disorganization theory and conflict theory, suggest that broad social factors, like wealth distribution, influence an individual's propensity to engage in criminal behavior.

According to social disorganization theory, crime is most likely to occur in communities with weak social ties and the absence of social control. This view is supported by the fact that neighborhoods with certain demographic and economic profiles tend to have higher crime rates.

Conflict theory, influenced by Karl Marx, further examines the relationship between social class, power, and crime, suggesting that laws and norms reflecting the interests of the wealthy further contribute to crime among those with less power and resources.

Therefore, Josh's conclusion aligns with option b) Social structure theories of crime.

User Jamie Burns
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