Instruction
Part 1; Kai Erikson argues that deviance is a social constructions, meaning criminal behavior is not something people do. Others, the mainstream or those in power define an act as deviant. A good example for his theory is the Salem witch hunt. The people who were persecuted did not commit an objective crime, they were rather outsiders who did not conform to the norms of puritan society. Their deviance was therefore bestowed on them by others.
Based on Erikson's assumption discuss whether or not his ideas about criminal behavior are applicable to contemporary American Society? Focus on the the strength and weaknesses of his theory and illustrate your response with an example form contemporary US society. [If you had the time/ opportunity to watch the first episode of "Making a Murderer on Netflix you can refer to the example of Stephen Avery in your response]. You have to write one comment of minimum 450 words.
Part 2: Consider the case of Armed Robbers that Decker et al. have described. What part of the actions were rational? Based on what we have discussed so far in this class, can you think of any counter arguments to the rational choice perspective on criminal activity in general?
You can also rely on the optional reading "Sneaky Thrills" to formulate your response.
Write a minimum of 450 words