Question 1: Define 'state crime' in your own words.

Answer: State crime refers to illegal or harmful acts committed by government officials or institutions that violate laws or human rights.

Question 2: Give two examples of actions that could be considered state crimes.

Answer: Examples include police brutality and government corruption or abuse of power.

Question 3: Explain how state crime differs from ordinary street crime.

Answer: State crime is committed by those in authority and often involves abuse of power, whereas street crime is committed by individuals or groups in society usually for personal gain.

Question 4: Discuss one reason why some people believe that governments might commit crimes against their own citizens.

Answer: Some believe governments might commit crimes to maintain control, suppress dissent, or hide corruption.

Question 5: Identify one example from history where a government was involved in a crime against its own people.

Answer: The Nazi regime's involvement in the Holocaust is an example of state crime.

Question 6: Describe a way that society can hold governments accountable for their actions.

Answer: Society can hold governments accountable through independent investigations, protests, media scrutiny, or legal proceedings.

Question 7: Explain what is meant by 'institutional corruption' within the context of state crime.

Answer: Institutional corruption refers to corrupt practices that occur within government institutions, such as bribery, embezzlement, or abuse of power by officials.

Question 8: Sketch a diagram showing the relationship between government, law, and citizens in the context of state crime. Label the main components clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show three circles or boxes labeled 'Government,' 'Law,' and 'Citizens,' with arrows indicating interactions. For example, 'Government' makes laws, 'Law' regulates actions, and 'Citizens' are subject to laws. An arrow from 'Government' to 'Citizens' could indicate enforcement, while a broken arrow could show abuse or violation of laws in cases of state crime.

Question 9: Suggest one way that sociologists can study state crime.

Answer: Sociologists can study state crime through analysis of government documents, interviews with victims or whistleblowers, or examining court cases and reports.

Question 10: Why is it important for society to recognize and address state crimes?

Answer: It is important to protect human rights, maintain justice and trust in government, and prevent abuse of power that can harm individuals and society as a whole.