Theoretical frameworks of social control, Inequality and Policing

This week, we learned about several different criminological frameworks that have been used to understand policing and the role that social control (broadly) and law enforcement (specifically) play in society.  Some of these frameworks can be used as a tool by law enforcement to execute more effective police work (e.g., situational crime prevention), while others take a more macro-level approach to the origin and control of disorganization and crime (e.g., Broken Windows Theory). The understanding of policing and social control really is quite multifaceted and complex. 

That being said, I want you all to have a little *fun* with this week’s discussion. Specifically, I ask that you select at least one framework and apply it to the course topics of “crime,” “social control,” “inequality,” and “policing”. For something like situational crime prevention, this may require the analysis of a particular type of crime (like burglary). Alternatively, if you are more interested in the relationship between inequality and social control, then you may consider a framework like Broken Window Theory. You are free to select a framework from outside this list if you would like; however, I ask that, in your discussion post, you stick as closely to the four themes of “crime,” “social control, “inequality,” and “policing” as possible. 

Please try to dive into depth and relate to the subject and make a personal connection!