Pluralist Theories of Crime: The Concepts of Power and Labelling

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Pluralist Theories of Crime: The Concepts of Power and Labelling
The pluralist theories contend that conflict is inevitable and naturally occurring in societies characterized by diversity, a basis for competition. Competition occurs because each entity is trying to achieve social dominance (Eisler). However, the theories reconcile that consensus on the role of law as a neutral mediator of conflicts. As a result, competition is paramount. These ideas have been used to shape perceptions of crime in academia and policy formulation by linking the crime to sources of power and the ultimate outcomes of labeling that persists, either consciously or subconsciously, to alienate further the group that appears to defy the accepted social norms, otherwise called deviants.
Understanding of Power
Within these theories, the explanation of the manifestation of crime through power structures can be grouped into four core categories: law, social nature, social institutions, and legal conflict. Under the aspect of the law, pluralists maintain that the law reflects the interests and values held by the dominant ethnic, cultural, or religious group. Thus, where the dominant group determines what is normal or what is morally right or wrong, the norms of other groups within this society that appear to defy the standards of the dominant group can easily be labeled as a crime. Based on this view, then it means the inherent pursuit of a heterogeneous society is more likely to increase conflicts since some groups are being forced to adopt the dominant group's norms. Any resistance is then perceived as deviance.
Under social nature, pluralists argue that crime should not be perceived as an individual law violation. Instead, it should be interpreted through its social nature (Eisler). Crime is, therefore, a by-product of competition between groups. Competition arises because each group seeks to control resources and strengthen its position within society. When this happens, the most successful group seizes control and excludes. This group determines the common vision of society; a vision primarily shaped to further this population's interest even at the expense of other groups. In essence, crime is not a result of individual pathologies but an outcome of conflict and competition among groups.
Under social institutions, pluralists maintain that these institutions are dockets of power and whoever controls them has control over society (Eisler). These social institutions govern...