Social Control - An Introduction, 3rd Edition

Social control is the process of exerting influence over individuals or groups to prevent or regulate behavior. It involves a range of mechanisms, including laws, norms, social institutions, and cultural beliefs. The criminal justice system is one example of a social control mechanism that exerts control through the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Some argue that we need more social controls to prevent terrorist atrocities, while others argue that such controls can be oppressive and violate individual rights. James J. Chriss' book "Social Control" provides a comprehensive guide to the debates about social control, examining historical debates and contemporary controversies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

Social control is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various mechanisms and processes used to regulate and manage behavior within societies. It plays a crucial role in maintaining order, stability, and harmony among individuals and groups. This essay aims to explore the nature, origins, and implications of social control, as well as its role in shaping everyday life.

One of the primary functions of social control is to establish and maintain social norms and values. These norms and values are the foundation of social order and provide a sense of identity and belonging for individuals. They guide behavior, expectations, and attitudes, and help to prevent deviant or antisocial behavior. Social control mechanisms such as education, religion, family, and peer groups play a significant role in transmitting and reinforcing these norms and values.

Another important aspect of social control is the criminal justice system. The criminal justice system is responsible for enforcing laws and punishing individuals who violate them. It serves as a deterrent to crime and provides a means of social control by imposing penalties and rehabilitation on those who engage in criminal behavior. The criminal justice system also plays a role in maintaining social order by protecting individuals and communities from harm.

However, the use of social control can also be controversial and problematic. Critics argue that social control can be coercive and oppressive, leading to the violation of individual rights and freedoms. Excessive use of surveillance, police brutality, and mass incarceration can undermine trust and respect between individuals and the state, leading to social unrest and resentment.

In addition to the criminal justice system, other institutions and mechanisms of social control also play a role in shaping everyday life. For example, medicine plays a significant role in social control by diagnosing and treating mental illness. Mental illness can be seen as a deviant behavior that disrupts social order and threatens the well-being of individuals and communities. By providing treatment and support, medicine helps to manage and control mental illness, thereby promoting social stability and harmony.

Similarly, sports participation can also be seen as a form of social control. Sports programs and competitions provide opportunities for individuals to develop their skills, build their self-esteem, and contribute to their communities. They also serve as a means of socialization and bonding, promoting social cohesion and reducing deviant behavior.

Furthermore, the media and technology play a growing role in social control. Social media platforms and digital technologies provide new avenues for surveillance and monitoring, allowing governments and organizations to exert control over individual behavior. They also facilitate the spread of information and ideas, shaping public opinion and influencing social norms and values.

However, the use of social control in the digital age raises concerns about privacy, freedom of speech, and the potential for abuse. Excessive surveillance and data collection can infringe on individual rights and freedoms, while the spread of misinformation and fake news can undermine public trust and social stability.

In conclusion, social control is a complex and multifaceted concept that plays a crucial role in shaping everyday life. It encompasses various mechanisms and processes used to establish and maintain social norms and values, enforce laws and punish criminal behavior, manage mental illness, promote sports participation, and control behavior through media and technology. While social control can be effective in promoting social order and stability, it is important to ensure that it is used responsibly and in accordance with human rights and freedoms.

Weight: 682g
Dimension: 253 x 176 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509539499