postmodernism

• What do postmodernist theorists suggest about society?

  It has changed economically, socially, politically, and culturally
• What characterizes the new period called postmodernity?

  Social fragmentation, risk, choice, diversity, and uncertainty
• Why do postmodernists argue against grand narratives like Functionalism or Marxism in explaining crime?

  They believe these narratives are outdated and ineffective
• How do postmodernists view the law in relation to social norms and values?

  They suggest the law must constantly change
• What has brought about the change to a postmodern society?

  Cultural diffusion and globalisation
• What can lead individuals to commit crimes in a consumer society?

  Inability to satisfy material needs and wants
• How does the media influence crime in a postmodern world?

  It glamorizes crime and affects lifestyle choices
• How has human society transformed in a postmodern context?

  It has become a consumer society
• Who is Zygmunt Bauman?


  A theorist who discusses 'Liquid Modernity'
• What shift did Bauman identify in modern society?


  From a society of producers to consumers
• What does Bauman mean by 'liquid fears'?


  Fears that are diffuse and hard to identify
• What does Ulrich Beck suggest about postmodern societies?


  They are characterized by choice and increased risk
• How do science and technology contribute to risk in society according to Beck?

  They create problems like global warming and terrorism
• What is a 'risk society' as described by Beck?


  A society facing new issues due to increased choice
• How does the inability to satisfy material needs affect crime in postmodern societies?


  It intensifies resentment against the affluent
• What do postmodern theorists study regarding social control?

  How societies control individuals
• How do discourses contribute to social control?

  They deny others their humanity
• Who is Michel Foucault?


  A French theorist on social control
• What concept did Foucault develop in 'Discipline and Punish'?

  Panopticism
• What does Foucault argue about the origins of the modern prison?


  It arose from the need for efficient social control
• What is the panopticon according to Bentham?


  A circular building for constant observation
• How does panopticism function in society?


  It creates invisible discipline through surveillance
• What does Foucault believe about the role of surveillance in society?


  It is a symbol of disciplinary power
• How does Foucault view power in relation to discourse?

  Power is everywhere and operates through discourse
• How is social control achieved in postmodern societies?

  Through seduction and repression
• What role does consumerism play in social control?

  It seduces individuals into obedience
• How has technology impacted surveillance in postmodern societies?

  It has made surveillance easier and more pervasive
• What are ID cards an example of?

  A form of surveillance
• How is the postmodern control system characterized?

  By expansion of public and informal control systems
• What has happened to prison populations in some countries?

  They have increased dramatically
• How do new technologies aid in crime detection?

  They allow for systematic monitoring of crimes
• What is the 'Snooper’s Charter'?


  A law allowing government to monitor internet use
• What are the key features of postmodernism in relation to crime and deviance?

  • Social fragmentation
  • Risk and choice
  • Diversity and uncertainty
  • Constantly changing social norms
• What are the emerging patterns of control in postmodern societies?

  1. Expansion of state-financed public control
  2. Informal control systems for young offenders
  3. Increased surveillance techniques, often privately funded
• How does Foucault's concept of panopticism apply to modern society?

  • Symbolizes disciplinary power
  • Creates self-regulation through surveillance
  • Relevant in digitalized information environments
• What are the implications of surveillance technologies in postmodern societies?

  • Enhanced monitoring of behavior
  • Increased self-surveillance among individuals
  • Potential for abuse of power and privacy invasion