#7 Deviance & Race and Class in the American Criminal Justice System

      Chapter 8 explains that relationship between deviance and three social factors which are culture, structure, and power. Deviance is behavior that differs from cultural norms, especially a person whose behavior and attitudes differ from accepted social standards. Example of deviance we covered in class were running red light, prostitution, stealing and violence etc. Cultural norms define what people in society views as normal or deviant. We are following these norms through socialization and across cultures. Sometimes, deviance can result from unsuccessful or inadequate socialization. In such cases, people engaged in deviant behavior have not thoroughly internalized social norms and are not fully regulated by the moral framework of society. Through interactions in the small groups that form the basis for social structure, people learn norms and expectations about appropriate behavior. People can either reinforce or challenge norms about deviance through their actions. Those in society with few resources-money, power, education, or leisure- sometimes engage in deviant behavior in pursuit of these socially valued goods. Those who are stigmatized as deviant often experience isolation or discrimination that can contribute further to social, economic, or political inequalities.

      The article "Race and Class in the American Criminal Justice System" by David Cole talks about discrimination. Using example of O.J. Simpson's case, he explains that whites have more advantages than blacks.For example, whites could buy a good attorney. He also states that the issues of race and class are present in every criminal case. Racial inequality remains to this day the most formidable of our social problems. The criminal justice system designed to prevent crime and punish those who commit crimes. However, inequality and discrimination are still existing in our society. It is quite sad to read this article. We must aware of it.