Comparative criminal justice systems M1D

Based on the textbook and other outside sources, what factors might contribute to the very low crime rates in Japan and Saudi Arabia compared to the relatively higher rates in the United States? Do you think the low crime rates in Saudi Arabia and Japan are accurate or legitimate? Why or why not?

Post a substantive initial response of at least 250 words to this discussion assignment.

In addition to posting your initial response, you must (at a minimum) provide two substantive peer responses of at least 125 words (more is better). Let’s ensure a healthy discussion by posting on at least two different days throughout the discussion period (not all on the last two days). The best way to space your postings is to initially post at the start of the discussion period and then again a few days later.

Remember to include quality Internet links and citations to reputable sources that support your positions or add to the quality of the discussion

ANSWER

Comparative Criminal Justice System

Crime is a global problem that directly affects individuals in multiple ways such as being victims, paying high prices for services and products and living with consequences of corruption and fear (Dammer and Albanese, 2013). Therefore, understanding crime tends is significant both internationally and domestically. Crime rates differ greatly from one nation to another and are influenced by different factors.  There are a number of potential factors that could lead to the low crime rates in Saudi Arabia and Japan compared to higher crime rates in the U.S. Some of these possible factors include different levels of inequality and economic development, levels of social cohesion, levels of gun ownership, drug use and socioeconomic factors.

Countries such as United States, with higher levels of economic development and greater income inequality, tend to have higher crime rates. This may be due to a number of factors, such as increased opportunities for criminal activity and greater frustration/discontentment among those who feel they are not benefiting from the country’s economic success. Japan and Saudi Arabia have strong social cohesion compared to United States such as close-knit families and communities, high levels of trust and social capital thus have lower crime rates. This may be due to the fact that people in these societies are more likely to conform to social norms and are less likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Countries with higher levels of gun ownership tend to have higher rates of gun crime. There is a low level of gun ownership in Saudi Arabia and Japan compared to United States. This is likely due to the fact that guns are more easily available and can be used more easily in the commission of a crime. Countries with higher levels of poverty and inequality have higher rates of crime. This is likely due to the fact that people in these societies are more likely to turn to criminal activity in order to make ends meet.

The low crime rates in Saudi Arabia and Japan are legitimate. The low crime rates are linked to social, cultural and ethnic dynamics. For instance, the strong cultural affinity and social crime control within Japan have played a major role in lowering the rates of crime in the country (Takahashi, 2017). The social cohesion in Saudi Arabia is also an important factor in reducing crime rates. Both Saudi Arabia and Japan have strong law enforcement systems. The police forces are well-trained and equipped to deal with crime.

References

Dammer, H. R., & Albanese, J. S. (2013). Comparative criminal justice systems. Cengage Learning.

Takahashi, R. (2017). Climate, crime, and suicide: Empirical evidence from Japan. Climate Change Economics, 8(01), 1750003.