Answer to Question 1
An important principle of social reaction theory is that the law is differentially applied, benefiting those who hold economic and social power and penalizing the powerless.
The probability of being brought under the control of legal authority is a function of a person's race, wealth, gender, and social standing while wealthy white-collar criminals are most often punished by a relatively small fine, poor kids who get involved in street crimes, such as burglary or car theft, most often face incarceration and other harsh punishments.
While substantive and procedural laws govern almost every aspect of the American justice system, discretionary decision making controls its operation at every level.
From the police officer's decision on whom to arrest, to the prosecutor's decisions on whom to charge and for how many and what kind of charges or whether to treat the offender as a juvenile or prosecute in adult court, to the judge's decision on the length of the sentence, discretion works to the detriment of minorities, including African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, and Native Americans.
Race bias adversely influences decision making in many critical areas of the justice system. Some juvenile court judges may sympathize with white defendants and help them avoid delinquent labels, especially if they seem to come from good families, whereas minority youth are not afforded that luxury.
Student views will vary.
Answer to Question 2
Crime control advocates
Imaginary Thoracic Lines, Anterior View
Imaginary Thoracic Lines, Posterior View
Anatomy of the Right Knee Joint, Anterior View
Close-up view of Pluto's mountains, frozen plains and hazes
Anterior view of shoulder blade
The Axis (Superior View)