Which aspect does conflict theory emphasize in relation to crime?

Conflict theory emphasizes the role of power struggles and social inequalities in shaping criminal behavior and the criminal justice system. This perspective argues that society is structured around conflicts between different social classes or groups, particularly those with economic and political power versus those without.

According to conflict theorists, laws and social norms are often established by those in power to maintain their dominance and control over resources. Consequently, crime is seen not just as individual acts of deviance, but as a reflection of broader societal issues, such as economic disparity and systemic oppression. For instance, marginalized groups may engage in criminal behavior as a response to their exclusion and limited access to legitimate opportunities. Additionally, the enforcement of laws may disproportionately target lower-income groups while being more lenient towards the activities of the wealthy, further highlighting the influence of power dynamics in the discourse on crime.

This understanding of crime through the lens of power and inequality provides a critical framework for examining how social structures can foster criminality and how definitions of crime may vary based on the interests of powerful groups.