According to criminogenic capitalism, what is a significant factor that leads to utilitarian crime?

Poverty as a means of survival is a significant factor that leads to utilitarian crime, as outlined in the criminogenic capitalism theory. This perspective, grounded in the works of sociologists like Marx, posits that the structure of capitalism creates conditions where individuals, particularly those in lower socio-economic classes, resort to crime to meet their basic needs.

In capitalist societies, economic inequality often results in marginalized groups experiencing severe poverty. These individuals may feel compelled to engage in utilitarian crimes, such as theft or drug dealing, as these acts can provide them with necessary resources for survival. The theory suggests that when legitimate opportunities for economic advancement are blocked due to societal structures, individuals may turn to crime as a viable alternative.

Moreover, this situation is exacerbated by a lack of access to education and stable employment, which reinforces the cycle of poverty and crime. Therefore, the link between poverty and utilitarian crime is central to understanding how economic conditions influence criminal behavior in a capitalist framework.