Question

White-collar crime is responsible for a lot of social devastation. Larger cases have wiped out retirement funds for thousands of people, creating

ongoing economic hardship, a far more serious consequence than is usually the case for traditional street crime. Nevertheless, white-collar crimes
are perceived as less of a problem than traditional street crimes. What is the BEST evidence that this is the case?

Answer 1

White-collar crimes are perceived as less of a problem than traditional street crimes due to differences in punishment and public perception. Despite causing significant social and economic devastation, white-collar crimes often result in lenient sentences and lesser public outrage. This disparity in punishment undermines the severity of white-collar crimes and contributes to their under-punishment in society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best evidence that white-collar crimes are perceived as less of a problem than traditional street crimes is the difference in punishment and public perception. White-collar crimes, despite causing significant social and economic devastation, often result in lenient sentences and lesser public outrage compared to traditional street crimes. For example, while larger cases of white-collar crimes can wipe out retirement funds and create ongoing economic hardship for thousands of people, the individuals responsible may receive deferred or reduced jail sentences.

This disparity in punishment highlights the perception that white-collar crimes are less harmful and deserving of lesser consequences compared to traditional street crimes. This perception may be influenced by factors such as the social status of offenders involved in white-collar crimes, the media's portrayal and coverage of crimes, and inaccurate public perception driven by popular crime series and extensive media coverage.

Ultimately, this perception undermines the severity of white-collar crimes and can contribute to the under-punishment and costly nature of such offenses within society.

Answer 2

The best evidence that white-collar crimes are perceived as less of a problem than traditional street crimes is the disparity in media coverage and public attention given to the two types of crime. Traditional street crimes, such as robbery and murder, often receive extensive media coverage and public outcry, while white-collar crimes, which can have far-reaching and long-lasting consequences, typically receive less attention and scrutiny.