The New Right perspective on crime takes a conservative approach,... Show more
Sociology152 views·Updated May 24, 2026·2 pagesNew Right Theory Notes for AQA GCSE Sociology
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New Right Perspective Basics
Ever wondered why politicians talk about "family values" when discussing crime? The New Right perspective believes crime happens when people step outside society's shared values and moral boundaries.
Unlike other theories that blame poverty, New Right theorists like Charles Murray and James Wilson argue that crime comes from individual failings. They reckon most people naturally follow the rules, so criminals are simply choosing to be different from law-abiding citizens.
Here's where it gets interesting - they don't think all illegal acts should actually be crimes. Some laws only exist because interfering politicians want to control people's lives, not because the behaviour actually harms anyone.
The theory focuses heavily on practical solutions rather than understanding root causes. They believe even minor crimes need tough responses because being "soft" on criminals only makes things worse.
Key Insight: New Right theorists see crime as a choice made by selfish individuals, not a result of social problems like inequality.
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The Underclass Theory and Family Breakdown
Murray's most controversial idea is his underclass theory - he argues that certain groups in society create criminals through poor parenting and welfare dependency. His main target? Single-parent families.
According to Murray, when the welfare state provides too much support, it destroys people's motivation to work and weakens family structures. He believes this creates "social sickness" that breeds criminal behaviour, especially in children from lone-parent households.
The evidence seems mixed but concerning. Statistics show that children from single-parent families are nine times more likely to become young offenders, and only 30% of young criminals grew up with both parents present.
However, critics argue this theory ignores the real problem - Marxists point out that unemployment exists because capitalism creates winners and losers, not because people are lazy or morally weak.
Remember: While family stability matters, be careful not to blame all crime on single parents - the reality is much more complex than Murray suggests.
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Sociology152 views·Updated May 24, 2026·2 pagesNew Right Theory Notes for AQA GCSE Sociology
F
fola@fola
The New Right perspective on crime takes a conservative approach, arguing that crime stems from poor upbringing and weak moral values rather than social inequality. This theory, developed by sociologists like Charles Murray and James Wilson, focuses on practical solutions... Show more
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New Right Perspective Basics
Ever wondered why politicians talk about "family values" when discussing crime? The New Right perspective believes crime happens when people step outside society's shared values and moral boundaries.
Unlike other theories that blame poverty, New Right theorists like Charles Murray and James Wilson argue that crime comes from individual failings. They reckon most people naturally follow the rules, so criminals are simply choosing to be different from law-abiding citizens.
Here's where it gets interesting - they don't think all illegal acts should actually be crimes. Some laws only exist because interfering politicians want to control people's lives, not because the behaviour actually harms anyone.
The theory focuses heavily on practical solutions rather than understanding root causes. They believe even minor crimes need tough responses because being "soft" on criminals only makes things worse.
Key Insight: New Right theorists see crime as a choice made by selfish individuals, not a result of social problems like inequality.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
The Underclass Theory and Family Breakdown
Murray's most controversial idea is his underclass theory - he argues that certain groups in society create criminals through poor parenting and welfare dependency. His main target? Single-parent families.
According to Murray, when the welfare state provides too much support, it destroys people's motivation to work and weakens family structures. He believes this creates "social sickness" that breeds criminal behaviour, especially in children from lone-parent households.
The evidence seems mixed but concerning. Statistics show that children from single-parent families are nine times more likely to become young offenders, and only 30% of young criminals grew up with both parents present.
However, critics argue this theory ignores the real problem - Marxists point out that unemployment exists because capitalism creates winners and losers, not because people are lazy or morally weak.
Remember: While family stability matters, be careful not to blame all crime on single parents - the reality is much more complex than Murray suggests.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Right Realism
7Most popular content in Sociology
9Most popular content
9Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user