Which group is identified as holding power in a conflict view of crime?

Which group is identified as holding power in a conflict view of crime?

• A. The rich
• B. The police
• C. The middle class
• D. The government

Answer: (A)

In a conflict view of crime, power is measured by who controls resources and can shape laws and enforcement. The wealthy hold the most influence over political agendas, business interests, media, and the legal system, so they determine what counts as crime and how punishment is applied. Because the rich can steer legislation and its application to protect their interests, they are identified as the group that holds power in this perspective. The police enforce those laws, and the government creates them, but both operate within a system where wealth confers the greatest influence. The middle class has less impact on the overall power dynamics than those who control extensive resources.

In a conflict view of crime, power is measured by who controls resources and can shape laws and enforcement. The wealthy hold the most influence over political agendas, business interests, media, and the legal system, so they determine what counts as crime and how punishment is applied. Because the rich can steer legislation and its application to protect their interests, they are identified as the group that holds power in this perspective. The police enforce those laws, and the government creates them, but both operate within a system where wealth confers the greatest influence. The middle class has less impact on the overall power dynamics than those who control extensive resources.