1. Explaining Criminal Deviance
Merton’s Anomie Theory (Ch. 5)
Legacy of Durkheim
Anomie - normlessness
No regulation on individual desires
R.K. Merton’s Anomie/Strain
Individual Adaptation to Social Conditions
Social Condition/Structure composed of two elements:
Cultural Goals
Institutional Means

2. Anomie Type of Cultural Institutional Adaptation Goals Means
Conformity
Innovation
Ritualistic
Retreatist
Rebellion -/+ -/+
Implications:
Structural Distribution of Institutional Means is Unequal
Cultural emphasis on $ success leaves individual aspirations unchecked
-One of the elements of the bond (regulation) is not accomplished
-This is the result of people being successfully attached (or integrated)
-This truly “Anomic” – a culture that does not provide its members with the social elements necessary to bond and control their behavior.

3. White Collar Crime Varieties of White Collar Crime (Edelhartz 1970)
Crimes against Government by Public Officials:
bribes, fraud
Crimes against Government by Private Citizens
tax fraud, welfare fraud
Crimes against Businesses
Embezzlement, theft, computer fraud
Crimes against Investors
Selling worthless stock; speculating stocks
Crimes against Consumers
Selling bad or dangerous products; overcharging; false advertising; unnecessary prescriptions/surgeries, etc.
Crimes Against Employees
Employee health and safety; Discriminatory hiring/promotion
Crimes Affecting Public Health
Industrial pollution

4. Relevant Chapters: Protective Cloak Status Altruism Autonomy
International Organized Crime
Narcotics as a money-making venture
Often links to legitimate businesses
Different from street gangs?
The Crash of Valuejet Flight 592
Typical of Sutherland’s definition of White Collar Crime: Corporate Crime
What is the role of the government (or regulating agencies charged with protecting the public)?
36. Opportunity and Crime in Medical Professions
Protective Cloak
Status
Altruism
Autonomy
Types of Crime
Kickbacks
Prescription Violations
Unnecessary Treatment
Sexual Misconduct
Medicaid Fraud & Abuse