Critical Criminology: Unmasking Capitalism’s Role in Crime

BayBay City, Philippines – July 11, 2025 Critical Criminology challenges the traditional focus on individual offenders, instead directing its lens towards the social structures that breed crime. Within this school of thought, capitalism emerges as a central culprit, shaping societal conditions that push individuals towards criminal activity.

Paving the Way: Core Theories and Thinkers

Critical Criminology draws on several key theories to understand the link between capitalism and crime. Here’s a table outlining some of the major contributions:

Theorist	Theory	Key Ideas
Richard Quinney	Conflict Theory	Capitalism inherently creates conflict between the ruling class (capitalists) and the working class. The ruling class controls resources and enacts laws that benefit them, leaving the working class with limited opportunities for upward mobility. This disparity can fuel crime as some resort to illegal means to meet their needs.
C. Wright Mills	Power Elite Theory	Power concentrates in the hands of a small, wealthy elite in capitalist societies. This elite wields economic and political influence to shape laws and policies that favor their interests, often at the expense of the working class. Such an imbalanced system can lead to feelings of alienation and resentment, potentially leading to crime.
Jock Young	New Left Realism	Capitalism is inherently contradictory. The emphasis on consumerism and material success creates pressure to achieve wealth, even if through illegal means. Additionally, the decline of social safety nets and the erosion of working-class communities can leave individuals vulnerable to criminal activity.
Patricia Hill Collins	Feminist Critical Criminology	Capitalism creates a system of patriarchal oppression, disproportionately impacting women. Limited economic opportunities and gendered expectations can push women into criminal activity for survival or to challenge the status quo.

Achievements and Impact

Critical Criminology has made significant contributions to our understanding of crime:

• Shifts the Focus: It challenges the individualistic perspective, urging us to examine the social structures that create crime-conducive environments.
• Empowers Marginalized Voices: It gives voice to the experiences of marginalized communities disproportionately affected by crime and the capitalist system.
• Informs Policy: By exposing the link between capitalism and crime, it advocates for policies that address social inequalities and promote economic justice.

Looking Ahead: The Ongoing Debate Critical Criminology’s critique of capitalism continues to spark debate. While some argue for dismantling the capitalist system altogether, others advocate for reforms that promote greater social equality and economic opportunity. Regardless of the solutions proposed, Critical Criminology remains a vital perspective in understanding the complex relationship between crime and the social order.