Crimes of the Powerful

The video explores the concept of crimes of the powerful, contrasting them with traditional views of crime linked to social deprivation. It discusses white collar, corporate, and state crimes, highlighting examples like the Iraq war and BP explosion. The challenges in addressing these crimes, such as language, enforcement, and research difficulties, are examined. The video also delves into research methods and the techniques of neutralization used by powerful individuals to justify their actions.

What is the traditional view of crime according to sociological research?

• Crime is mainly caused by environmental pollution.

• Crime is mainly caused by social deprivation.

• Crime is mainly caused by technological advancement.

• Crime is mainly caused by genetic factors.

What term did Edwin Sutherland coin to describe crimes committed by individuals in high-status positions?

• Blue-collar crime

• White-collar crime

• Corporate crime

• State crime

Which of the following is an example of state crime discussed in the video?

• The BP oil refinery explosion

• The Iraq War

• The Volkswagen emissions scandal

• The Enron scandal

What is a key challenge in enforcing laws against crimes of the powerful?

• Lack of public interest

• Use of regulatory agencies instead of police forces

• Excessive media coverage

• Overfunding of enforcement agencies

Why is researching crimes of the powerful particularly difficult?

• Lack of interest from researchers

• Powerful individuals have control over information

• Too much data is available

• Researchers are not trained in this area

What is one technique used by powerful individuals to justify their actions?

• Blaming the victim

• Claiming ignorance

• Appeal to higher loyalties

• Denial of responsibility

How do corporate executives justify their actions according to the video?

• By appealing to environmental concerns

• By appealing to international law

• By appealing to traditional notions of civilization through the market

• By appealing to religious beliefs