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Addressing Violent Crime More Effectively

Excessive punishment is the wrong response to rises in homicide rates.

• David Alan Sklansky
• Cutting Jail & Prison Populations

This essay is part of the Brennan Center’s series examining the punitive excess that has come to define America’s criminal legal system .

Over the past year and a half, as the United States struggled to address Covid-19, homicides in major American cities have increased sharply, and aggravated assaults appear to have increased, too. The numbers have been frightening : a 30 percent jump in killings in 2020, and a further increase of 16 percent in the first half of 2021. Over an 18-month period, about 33,000 lives were lost to violence in the United States — 8,400 more than would have been killed had homicide rates stayed the same as in 2019.

These numbers pale, of course, beside the more than 600,000 American deaths from the coronavirus over the same period. It’s also true that homicide rates across the United States have stayed far below their peaks in the 1980s and early 1990s, and about the same as what they were in the early 2000s. Still, 8,400 killings — let alone 33,000 killings — is a staggering toll. The numbers are even more devastating for Black Americans and Latinos, who are disproportionately the victims of lethal violence in the United States. For Black men under 45, homicide is far and away the leading cause of death , accounting for nearly a third of all fatalities; for Latino men in the same age group, it is the second leading cause of death .

So, while it’s good that the recent spike in homicides is getting attention, it’s critical not to respond with the kinds of policies that gave us mass incarceration and are helping to perpetuate it — in particular, the aggressive use of decades-long, mandatory prison sentences for “violent” crimes . There are better ways to respond: approaches that have proven effective in reducing extreme violence, without driving prison populations even higher.

For the last half-century, America’s chief strategy for attacking violent crime has been to double down on punishment. About half of all people behind bars in the United States are serving time for offenses classified as violent, many of them with mandatory terms prescribed by “three strikes” laws adopted in the 1990s. A third of all California prisoners, for example, were sentenced under the state’s three strikes law.

These laws are part of a web of punitive policies aimed at violent offenders , who also are commonly excluded from diversion programs, problem-solving courts, eligibility for early parole or humanitarian release, opportunities to expunge or seal convictions, and laws allowing re-enfranchisement. In Oklahoma, for example, defendants charged with violent crimes cannot be diverted to drug courts or mental health courts. If they are convicted and sent to prison, they can be paroled only by special order of the governor, and they generally are ineligible to use the state’s expungement statute.

People charged with violent crimes are also often denied procedural protections provided to other defendants. For example, in Nevada the evidentiary privileges for spouses cannot be invoked by defendants accused of violent offenses. Even before the pandemic, violent crime was something of a third rail for criminal justice reform in the United States, despite the clear, mathematical fact that there is no way to seriously address mass incarceration without radically reducing penalties for violent offenders.

There are three things wrong with these “ brute force ” responses to violent crime.  The first is that they impose massive harm for negligible benefit. There’s no evidence that draconian sentences have done much to reduce violence in the United States. They keep offenders locked up long after they represent any significant threat, and they don’t appreciably increase deterrence, which depends more on the certainty of punishment than on its severity. It’s true that crime plummeted in the 1990s , when imprisonment rates were rising, but imprisonment rates also rose during the 1970s and 1980s, without any change in crime rates. And crime rates during the 1990s — particularly rates of serious violence offenses — dropped just as dramatically in Canada as in the United States, and there was no mass incarceration north of the border. Decades of research have failed to show any beneficial effect of our long prison sentences on public safety. What is certain is that they destroy lives, tear apart families, hollow out communities, and wreck state budgets. 

The second problem, which exacerbates the first, is that “violence” is a morally freighted term without clear boundaries. Calling a crime “violent” is a way of placing it beyond the pale, outside the proper sphere of mercy, redemption, or understanding. Legal definitions of “violent crime” are highly arbitrary, reflecting the vagaries of moral condemnation rather than efforts at descriptive accuracy. Burglary is widely classified as violent, for example, even if no one is hurt or even at home when the crime occurs.  Arkansas and Rhode Island even treat larceny as a violent offense. Bodily assaults, on the other hand, generally trigger the special penalties for violent crimes only when they are “aggravated” by the infliction of “serious” injury or the involvement of a “deadly” weapon, factors that typically reflect the subjective judgment of police and prosecutors.  Whether a crime qualifies as “violent” can also be heavily influenced by racial bias and other forms of prejudice.

The third and final problem with America’s heightened penalties for violent crime is that they treat violence as overwhelmingly a matter of character rather than of circumstances. It takes remarkably few episodes of violence for someone to be labeled a “career” or “habitual” offender — three “strikes,” or in many places only two. In California, for example, a single previous conviction for a “serious or violent felony” doubles the required prison term for a subsequent offense. In many states, similarly, a single conviction for a violent felony, sometimes only a single arrest, can disqualify a defendant from diversion programs. The assumption underlying modern recidivism enhancements, and the eligibility restrictions on diversion programs, isn’t that a small subset of murders, rapes, and aggravated assaults are carried out by people who commit violent offenses again and again; it’s that anyone who commits two or three violent crimes is likely to be inherently violent. Our laws increasingly assume that the roots of violence are in the hearts and minds of offenders, not in the situations in which they find themselves. We tend to neglect the powerful social drivers of violence: from poverty and racism to the wide availability of guns in the United States. 

Covid-19 may be in that category, too. It’s not clear exactly why homicides have spiked in the United States during the pandemic. The same thing hasn’t happened in the United Kingdom or elsewhere in Europe, and there are cities in the United States that have bucked the trend as well. Some of the nationwide increase in killings over the past 18 months may have to do with the disruption of social services, which were already thinner here than across the Atlantic. Some may be due to a surge of gun purchases during the pandemic. Some may be traceable to the erosion of trust between the police and public following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. (One factor that can be ruled out, though, is the adoption of more lenient criminal justice policies, including the early release of some prisoners, in liberal parts of the country. Killings have risen in all parts of the country , just as much in Republican-led cities as in cities with Democratic mayors, and just as much in counties with and without progressive prosecutors .) There’s good reason to think, though, that bringing the coronavirus under control should be part of any strategy to confront the rising homicide rate. And, in fact, as the worst days of the pandemic have receded in New York City, homicides have fallen as well.

But if Covid-19 has in fact increased homicides, simplistic generalizations about “violent crime” have in turn worsened the public health emergency. It was clear from early 2020 that overcrowded prisons and jails would help the virus spread rapidly. But government officials across the country, Democrats as well as Republicans, have repeatedly balked at releasing “violent” offenders from prisons and jails, even as the death toll from the virus in carceral institutions has surpassed 2,700 , and even as the definition of “violent” remains vague and contingent.

Plainly, though, tackling Covid-19 can’t be the beginning and end of our anti-homicide strategy. Even before the pandemic, far too many people were dying violently in the United States. Fortunately, there is growing evidence that gun homicides between non-intimates — the kind of killings that have risen sharply over the past year and a half — can be reduced dramatically by violence reduction programs concentrated on the relatively small number of people, places, and social interactions responsible for most of the street violence in a given city. These programs are not easy to carry out successfully, and they are even more difficult to sustain over the long term. Pairing focused deterrence with social services and peer-to-peer counseling, they require trust and collaboration between police and community groups, close analysis of local patterns of violence, restraint on the part of police and prosecutors, a strong commitment to helping individuals exit cycles of violence, and an institutional framework that can survive leadership changes, budget crises, and the inevitable calls for tougher approaches when, as in 2020 and 2021, homicide rates begin to climb. 

The most famous of these programs, and a model for many of its successors, was Boston’s Ceasefire initiative, which dramatically reduced youth homicides by interrupting cycles of retaliatory gang violence. Ceasefire identified a relatively small number of groups responsible for the bulk of youth shootings in Boston and targeted their members with threats of criminal enforcement along with offers of economic support and social services if they refrained from gun violence. The program relied on consultation and coordination between the police department, a range of other municipal agencies and nonprofit groups, and inner-city clergy. A more recent, successful version of the Ceasefire approach, in Oakland, California , has focused on adult shooters rather than juveniles (reflecting differences between homicide patterns in Oakland and Boston) and has deemphasized the role of the police while expanding the role of peer-to-peer counseling.

It often takes several tries, stretching over years, before a city finds the right approach, appropriately tailored to local circumstances. And even the most successful programs, like those in Boston and Oakland, are not panaceas: both cities have seen increases in gun violence during the pandemic.

Still, we know these programs can work. Boston’s reduced youth homicides by roughly 50 percent. Those gains began to disappear in the early 2000s when the program was discontinued, then were recovered when the program was restarted. The results in Oakland were similarly impressive: both homicides and nonfatal shootings were cut in half. We also know that there are ways to reduce violent encounters between the police and the public, and ways to curtail prison violence , and ways to help victims of abuse within families and intimate relationships protect themselves from getting killed.

None of this is easy. Simpler and emotionally cathartic responses, like longer prison sentences for people convicted of violent crimes, have an obvious allure. But we have been down that road before. It leads nowhere good. Violence is a hard problem, and it cannot be ignored or simply wished away. But even the most pressing of crises can be made worse.

David Alan Sklansky is the Stanley Morrison Professor of Law and a faculty co-director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center at Stanford Law School.

Related Issues:

• Cutting Jail & Prison Populations

End Mandatory Minimums

Inflexible, harsh sentences exacerbate crime and racial disparities alike.

Independent Oversight Is Essential for a Safe and Healthy Prison System

Preventive monitoring of conditions in American prisons can help shine a light on what needs to change.

There Is No One Answer to Over-Policing and Mass Incarceration — There Are Many

Examples abound for successful alternative methods that can greatly improve the current criminal legal system.

Informed citizens are democracy’s best defense

• Essay Editor

How to Write a Response Paper: A Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

In academic settings, teachers often ask students to write response essays. These essays require you to think carefully about things you've read, watched, or listened to. Writing a good response essay means organizing your thoughts and explaining them clearly.

This guide will help you write a strong response essay. We'll go through each step, from understanding why you're writing to giving real examples. By the end, you'll know how to share your thoughts on any topic you're given.

What Is a Response Paper?

A response paper is a type of schoolwork where you share what you think and feel about a certain topic or idea. It's different from just summarizing a book or movie. In a response paper, you dig deeper into your own thoughts and reactions.

The main parts of a response paper are:

• Summing up ideas from what you read or saw
• Telling what you think about those ideas
• Connecting the topic to your own life or to bigger issues

Why Write a Response Essay?

Writing response essays helps you grow as a student and thinker. When you write these essays, you learn to look carefully at what others say and form your own opinions. Response essays also teach you to explain your ideas clearly, which is important in many jobs. They push you to think about why you agree or disagree with something instead of just accepting what you read or hear. By writing response essays, you become better at understanding complex topics and seeing different points of view. This can help you make smarter decisions and have more interesting conversations with others.

Response Paper Types

There are different kinds of response papers, depending on the assignment and material:

• Responses to books or poems
• Thoughts on movies, documentaries, or news articles
• Looking at research papers or scientific theories
• Connecting course materials to your own experiences
• Examining arguments in scholarly or journalistic pieces
• Writing about a lecture or show you went to
• Sharing your take on a painting, sculpture, or other artwork

Each type is different, but they all follow the same basic rules.

How to Start a Response Essay

Starting your response essay can be the hardest part. Here's how to begin:

• Read or observe the thing you're responding to carefully. Take notes on important points and your first thoughts.
• Come up with your main idea or argument.
• Draft a plan for your essay to keep your thoughts in order.
• A hook to grab the reader's attention
• A quick explanation of what you're responding to
• Your main idea

Here's an example of how to start a response essay:

"In 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the author presents a haunting portrayal of mental health treatment in the 19th century. The story makes you think about old-fashioned ideas and asks important questions about what it means to be sane and how important it is to express yourself. As I read Gilman's story, I found myself feeling uncomfortable but also very interested in what it means for how we talk about mental health and gender roles today."

Writing Your Response Paper

When you write your response paper, use this structure:

• Introduction: Tell readers what you're responding to. 
• Summary: Briefly explain the main points of what you read or watched. 
• Analysis: Look at what's good and not so good about the material. 
• Personal response: Share what you think and feel about it. 
• Conclusion: Sum up your main ideas and say your main point again.

Use examples from what you read to back up what you say. For instance:

"Gilman describes the wallpaper as 'repellent, almost revolting; a smoldering, unclean yellow.' This shows how the main character's mind is deteriorating and helps us see her growing obsession and worry."

Make sure you don't just summarize. Your own thoughts should be the most important part, backed up by details from what you read.

Response Essay Example

Here's a short response essay example about George Orwell's book "1984":

George Orwell's book "1984" shows a scary future where the government controls everything. The story makes people think about what could happen if those in power get too strong and start manipulating what's true. Even though it was written a while ago, many readers resonate with it today.

The main character, Winston Smith, fights to be himself in a world that wants everyone to be the same. He falls in love with Julia when he's not allowed to and he tries to join others who want to change things. This shows how people want to be free and connect with others, even in the toughest of circumstances.

Orwell's idea of "doublethink" — believing in two opposite things simultaneously — is really important today. We hear about "alternative facts" and see a lot of false information. This makes us think hard about what we read and hear and who we should trust.

Personally, I found "1984" to be a profound and unsettling read. The parallels between Orwell's fictional world and certain aspects of our modern society are striking. This book made me realize how important it is to have privacy and to be able to think for ourselves. It also shows how dangerous it is when any group, whether it's the government or a corporate entity, has too much control over information.

To sum up, "1984" is a powerful book that makes readers question people in charge, care about their privacy and fight to keep the truth and freedom for each person.

This example shows how to mix summary, analysis, and personal thoughts in a clear, interesting way.

Key Points to Remember

To write an exceptional response paper, you need to:

• Understand what you're responding to
• Clearly explain your own thoughts and reactions
• Balance summary, analysis, and your own ideas
• Use examples to support what you say
• Keep your essay organized from start to finish

Remember, the goal is to show that you've thought hard about the material and can think critically about it. If you follow these steps and practice a lot, you'll get better at writing response essays.

Aithor's writing tools can assist you throughout the process of writing your response essay, from generating ideas to polishing your final draft. With practice and the right tools, you'll be crafting insightful, well-structured written responses in no time.

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Crime Evolution: Impact and Response

Criminology is the study that explores how the society-crime-and-punishment relationship is dynamic. These issues have seen social views on them change widely over time, significantly affecting sentencing guidelines, public policy, and penal operations. This essay will examine the history underlying society’s perspective on crime and punishment, the necessity for a criminal justice system, recent amendments to sentencing guidelines, modern differences between punishment-focused and rehabilitative approaches, and the pivotal impacts of personal perspectives on diversity and cultural play.

Evolution of Society’s Views on Crime and Punishment

An exciting approach to understanding the concept of contemporary criminal justice is considering how society’s perception of crime and punishment has evolved over the years. Previously, punitive measures could be quite harsh since they focused on retaliation and deterrence (UNODC, 2019). Nonetheless, notions of justice changed along with the culture’s development, including social integration and correction components. This reflects on our increased understanding of crime’s complexities and what works best.

The demand for crime and punishment .

This leads to setting up a crime and punishment system that ensures social order and peace. Crime makes the community feel insecure and has no faith in one another. This leads to the creation of measures to enforce the law, safeguard people, and deter potential perpetrators. The fundamental desire for such creates legal systems, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies whose frameworks constitute a coherent policy against crime infliction (Singh, 2022).

Shift in Sentencing Laws

Sentence laws underwent a significant metamorphosis in the latter part of the twentieth century due to the “tough on crime” movement. Due to increasing crime rates, they argued in favor of harsher sentences, mandatory sentences, and overall emphasized punishment. As a result, they experienced increased incarcerations, which resulted in more strain on criminal justice resources and correctional facility overcrowding (Sabol et al., 2022). Likewise, it was clear that the public also appreciated the inadequacy of a strictly punitive stance. The “get tough on crime” movement emphasized this fact and showed the need to address the challenging matter of criminal activity more progressively and comprehensively.

“Impact of “Get Tough on Crime” on Public Policy

Public policy was significantly influenced by the “Get Tough on Crime” campaign. As a result, governments enacted laws prioritizing punishments instead of rehabilitation due to public demands. This increased the number of people who were incarcerated, which generated issues like overcrowding of the prison, stretched budgets within the criminal justice system, and the realization that broad criminal justice reform was needed. The significance of judging how these policy decisions impact the overall performance and health of the criminal justice system was underscored by this historical era.

Current Emphasis on Punishment or Rehabilitation

There is a noticeable movement in the current environment toward realizing the limitations of a strictly punitive approach to crime. Policymakers and experts in the criminal justice field are beginning to recognize the value of restorative justice and rehabilitation as effective alternatives to mass incarceration (Hutchings et al., 2019). This entails tackling the underlying reasons for criminal conduct, supporting community-based rehabilitation programs, and offering instruction and vocational training inside correctional facilities. A greater awareness of the complexity of crime and the possibility of good change is reflected in recognizing the need for a more comprehensive and rehabilitative approach.

Impact of Individual Perspectives on Multiculturalism and Diversity :

It is impossible to overestimate the influence of individual viewpoints on diversity and multiculturalism on how people respond to crime. Advocates for inclusive and fair criminal justice policies are more likely to be people with a broad and sympathetic awareness of varied origins. Understanding the intricacies that lead to criminal behavior and the significance of adjusting actions to be culturally sensitive is fostered by exposure to diverse cultures. On the other hand, people who don’t have a lot of exposure to variety might be more biased, which might influence how they see crime and punishment. To address this issue, educational initiatives that develop a sophisticated awareness of the connections between criminal conduct, diversity, and culture must be developed in addition to encouraging diversity within the criminal justice system.

Impact of “Get Tough on Crime” on Public Policy

The “Get Tough on Crime” campaign greatly influenced public policy. In such cases, the public demanded that governments prioritize punishments instead of rehabilitation, thus enacting laws to punish offenders. As a result, more people were being incarcerated, causing overcrowding in the prison, increased expenditures in the criminal justice system, and the realization that broad criminal justice reform was necessary. This historical era emphasized judging the impact of these policy decisions on the overall efficiency and health of the criminal justice system.

Within the contemporary climate, an apparent movement seeks to appreciate the limits of a strictly retributory approach to crime. Policymakers and criminal justice professionals recognize that restorative justice and rehabilitation are effective alternatives to mass imprisonment (Hutchings et al., 2019). This means addressing the roots of criminal activities, community reintegration programs, vocational skills, and education within correctional facilities. The need for a more wholesome and rehabilitating approach reflects an increased understanding of the intricacies surrounding crime and how possible it is to create a pathway for positive change.

Impact of Individual Perspectives on Multiculturalism and Diversity

The importance of personal opinions on diversity and multiculturalism’s influence on community responses to criminality cannot be underemphasized. Such people with a wide perspective on different origins are more likely to be advocates who support fair and democratic laws. Exposure to different cultures helps understand the complexities that cause crime and the need to align action with cultural sensitivity. However, those who lack variety exposure could be more biased, affecting their understanding of crime and punishment. This problem can be solved by developing educational initiatives that develop a sophisticated understanding of linkages between criminal acts, diversity, and culture and promoting diversity within the criminal justice system.

Historical strands present a picture of different approaches to punishing crimes in society – from punishment to a more sophisticated concept of justice. The “get tough on crime” phenomenon changed history by unmasking the shortcomings of severe punishment and triggering revision of the existing criminal justice system. Today, society focuses on rehabilitation and not just punishment since it is known that such all-round ways are required to address the real reason people commit crimes. With such an intricate atmosphere, individual opinions about multiculturalism and diversity become crucial for developing a sensitive and inclusive criminology oriented toward respecting various cultural perspectives. As we explore the intricacies of crime and punishment, it is important to understand that history, legislation, and individual perspectives all contribute to our criminal justice system’s direction. More importantly, it is necessary to devise strategies to create diversity in criminal activities and the criminal justice system.

Hutchings, M., Holden, J., Holden, T., & Windsor, C. (2019). Michael Walter Stringfellow (1931–2019).  Neutron News ,  30 (4), 15–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/10448632.2019.1695508

Sabol, W., Rosich, K., Mallik, K., Kirk, D., & Dubin, G. (2022).  The author(s) shown below used Federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Justice and prepared the following final report: Document Title: Influences of Truth-in-Sentencing Reforms on Changes in States’ Sentencing Practices and Prison Populations The Influences of Truth-in-Sentencing Reforms on Changes in States’ Sentencing Practices and Prison Populations . https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/195161.pdf

Singh, D. (2022). The Causes of Police Corruption and Working towards Prevention in Conflict-Stricken States.  Laws ,  11 (5), 69. https://doi.org/10.3390/laws11050069

UNODC. (2019).  Crime Prevention & Criminal Justice Module 7 Key Issues: 2- Justifying punishment in the community . Unodc.org. https://www.unodc.org/e4j/en/crime-prevention-criminal-justice/module-7/key-issues/2–justifying-punishment-in-the-community.html

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How to Write a Response Paper

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Most of the time when you are tasked with an essay about a book or article you've read for a class, you will be expected to write in a professional and impersonal voice. But the regular rules change a bit when you write a response paper.

A response (or reaction) paper differs from the formal review primarily in that it is written in the first person . Unlike in more formal writing, the use of phrases like "I thought" and "I believe" is encouraged in a response paper. 

You'll still have a thesis and will need to back up your opinion with evidence from the work, but this type of paper spotlights your individual reaction as a reader or viewer.

Read and Respond

Grace Fleming

For a response paper, you still need to write a formal assessment of the work you're observing (this could be anything created, such as a film, a work of art, a piece of music, a speech, a marketing campaign, or a written work), but you will also add your own personal reaction and impressions to the report.

The steps for completing a reaction or response paper are:

• Observe or read the piece for an initial understanding.
• Mark interesting pages with a sticky flag or take notes on the piece to capture your first impressions.
• Reread the marked pieces and your notes and stop to reflect often.
• Record your thoughts.
• Develop a thesis.
• Write an outline.
• Construct your essay.

It may be helpful to imagine yourself watching a movie review as you're preparing your outline. You will use the same framework for your response paper: a summary of the work with several of your own thoughts and assessments mixed in.

The First Paragraph

After you have established an outline for your paper, you need to craft the first draft of the essay using all the basic elements found in any strong paper, including a strong introductory sentence .

In the case of a reaction essay, the first sentence should contain both the title of the work to which you are responding and the name of the author.

The last sentence of your introductory paragraph should contain a thesis statement . That statement will make your overall opinion very clear.

Stating Your Opinion

There's no need to feel shy about expressing your own opinion in a position paper, even though it may seem strange to write "I feel" or "I believe" in an essay. 

In the sample here, the writer analyzes and compares the plays but also manages to express personal reactions. There's a balance struck between discussing and critiquing the work (and its successful or unsuccessful execution) and expressing a reaction to it.

Sample Statements

When writing a response essay, you can include statements like the following:

• I felt that
• In my opinion
• The reader can conclude that
• The author seems to
• I did not like
• This aspect didn't work for me because
• The images seemed to
• The author was [was not] successful in making me feel
• I was especially moved by
• I didn't understand the connection between
• It was clear that the artist was trying to
• The soundtrack seemed too
• My favorite part was...because

Tip : A common mistake in personal essays it to resort to insulting comments with no clear explanation or analysis. It's OK to critique the work you are responding to, but you still need to back up your feelings, thoughts, opinions, and reactions with concrete evidence and examples from the work. What prompted the reaction in you, how, and why? What didn't reach you and why?

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Essay on Crime

Students are often asked to write an essay on Crime in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Crime

Understanding crime.

Crime refers to acts that violate the law. They are considered harmful and punishable by a governing authority. Crimes can range from theft to murder.

Types of Crimes

There are various types of crimes. Violent crimes include actions like assault, while theft falls under property crimes. White-collar crimes involve fraud or embezzlement.

Consequences of Crime

Crimes have severe consequences. They can lead to imprisonment, fines, or even death penalties. Moreover, they harm communities and individuals, causing fear and damage.

Preventing Crime

Preventing crime involves law enforcement, education, and community programs. Everyone can contribute to a safer society by obeying laws and reporting suspicious activities.

250 Words Essay on Crime

Introduction.

Crime, a pervasive aspect of society, is an act that violates a law and is punishable by the state. It disruptively breaches societal norms, creating a sense of insecurity and fear. This essay delves into the nature of crime, its causes, and the role of law enforcement.

The Nature of Crime

Crime is a complex phenomenon, varying across cultures and societies. It ranges from minor offences like theft to severe ones like homicide. The nature of crime reflects societal values, as what is considered criminal is determined by the prevailing legal and moral code.

Causes of Crime

The causes of crime are multifaceted, involving biological, psychological, and sociological factors. Biological theories suggest genetic predispositions towards criminal behaviour. Psychological theories focus on the individual’s mental processes and their interaction with the environment. Sociological theories, on the other hand, emphasize societal structures and inequalities as major crime contributors.

Law Enforcement and Crime

Law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in maintaining order, preventing crime, and ensuring justice. They function as a deterrent, keeping potential criminals in check. However, their effectiveness is contingent upon their ability to adapt to evolving criminal tactics.

In conclusion, crime is a societal issue with deep roots in individual and social structures. Understanding its nature and causes is key to formulating effective strategies for prevention and control. As society evolves, so too must our approach to understanding and combating crime.

500 Words Essay on Crime

Crime, a social and legal concept, has been a part of human society since its inception. It refers to the actions that violate the norms and laws of a society, leading to harm or potential harm to individuals or the community. The study of crime, its causes, effects, and prevention, is a crucial aspect of sociology, psychology, and criminology.

Crime is a complex phenomenon, varying across societies and times. It is not static but evolves with societal norms and legal frameworks. What may be considered a crime in one society may not be in another, and similarly, what was a crime in the past might not be so today. For instance, homosexuality was once criminalized in many societies, but it is now widely accepted and decriminalized.

Types of Crime

Crimes are generally categorized into personal crimes, property crimes, inchoate crimes, statutory crimes, and financial crimes. Personal crimes involve direct harm or threat to an individual, such as assault or robbery. Property crimes involve interfering with another person’s property, like burglary or theft. Inchoate crimes are those that were started but not completed, while statutory crimes are violations of specific statutes. Financial crimes, such as fraud or embezzlement, involve the illegal conversion of property ownership.

The causes of crime are multifaceted, often interwoven with societal, psychological, and economic factors. Poverty, lack of education, substance abuse, and family violence are some common societal factors leading to crime. Psychological factors include personality disorders, low self-control, and aggression. Economic factors, such as unemployment or income inequality, also contribute significantly to crime rates.

Effects of Crime

Crime prevention strategies are as diverse as the causes of crime. They include social strategies, such as improving education and employment opportunities, and legal strategies, such as effective law enforcement and fair judicial systems. Psychological interventions, like counseling and therapy, can also play a significant role in crime prevention.

Understanding crime is essential to creating a safe and harmonious society. By examining its nature, types, causes, effects, and prevention, we can develop effective strategies to reduce crime rates and mitigate its impact on individuals and communities. It is a collective responsibility that requires the concerted efforts of individuals, communities, and governments.

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How to Make Your HSC Legal Studies Extended Responses Band 6 Material

The HSC Legal Studies paper is out of 100 marks, where over half of those marks come from essay-based questions.

65 marks, to be precise.

So it’s pretty clear that nailing your long-responses in HSC Legal Studies is crucial to doing well!

Knowledge of the course content is important, obviously, but being able to organise the information into a concise, coherent and persuasive response is equally important.

This article will not only try to cover, step-by-step, how to write a Band 6 response for HSC Legal Studies, but dispel some common Legal Studies essay-writing myths!

We’ll be working through the Crime question from the 2015 HSC Legal Studies paper:

As the Crime response is shorter than the other essays, it should be around 600 words.

However, the same general essay-writing principles this article details also apply to the longer essay questions in Section III (the two options)!

The main difference is that these two should be longer and more detailed with more examples given, totalling about 1000 words.

You can also check out a range of HSC Legal Studies Crime practice questions to revise with!

Step 1: Introduction

General statement.

First of all, make an indisputable general statement about the topic area. This should not be controversial, or a subjective argument.

Usually, it is safest to generally describe the topic in a contemporary sense.

For example,  “Various intermingling domestic and international measures exist which aim to deal with transnational crime”.

Is it absolutely crucial you directly answer the question.

It is painfully common that students simply describe the domestic and international measures used to deal with international crime –  don’t do this!

You are telling the marker how effective they are, therefore it is an argumentative, critical response.

Make sure you identify exactly  how effective are domestic and international measures in dealing with international crime.

Quantify this by describing precisely what your viewpoint is, whether that be very effective, somewhat effective or not effective at all.

Whatever your response (and there is not one correct answer, it’s all about how good your argument is as a whole!), this is your main line of argument/thesis.

For example,  “Domestic and international measures have only been somewhat effective in engaging with, and combating this type of crime due to * insert reason *”.

Outline your argument

Now that you’ve outlined your thesis, you have to list the reasons why.

You’re describing what topics/issues your essay will cover in order to prove your thesis. 

Generally listing the topic areas is sufficient and you don’t need to get into too much depth.

For example,  “This is evident in the areas of * list your topics *”.

Step 2: Body

This essay will prove its thesis by exploring four points: drugs trafficking, arms trade, people smuggling and money laundering. This would make  four paragraphs , with one point per section.

However, if one of your topics is more easily understood when explained in two paragraphs, there is nothing to prevent you from doing so.

What is important is making sure you maintain a balanced argument.

Don’t write 6 paragraphs on one of your points, and squish the last three into a paragraph! Try to place an equal amount of weight on all your topics.

Paragraph Structure

Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence.

As in an English essay, this sentence serves to explain what you will cover in the paragraph, and how that relates to the question/your thesis.

These need to be clear, as they mark the logical progression of your argument.

For example,  “The difficulty of cooperation between nationals reveals the ineffectiveness of international measures in dealing with transnational crime, which is clearly demonstrated in the prevalence of drug trafficking.”

After this, you need to explain your idea.

There are many acronyms to use, but my favourite is EEE:

• Explain, Elaborate, Example

You don’t necessarily have to use this if you’re writing perfectly coherent and flowing paragraphs.

But for the majority of us, following this structure ensures a good paragraph:

Explain: The inability of countries to create coherent and consistent action against transnational crime and drug syndicates in particular highlight a major weakness in international measures against transnational crime. Elaborate : Despite the existence of anti-drug measures adopted internationally, such as the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs (1961) and the Convention against the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (1988), the continued pervasiveness of large-scale drug trafficking reveals the inadequacy of these laws to target the root cause of international drug crime. Example: Operation Dayu, a crackdown by Australian authorities on money laundering and drug trafficking centred in Macau, revealed the “monumental struggle against global, multibillion-dollar crime behemoths” (McKenzie, Sydney Morning Herald, 2013).”

Lastly, finish your paragraph with a linking sentence, which brings your point back to your thesis.

For example,  “Therefore, it is clear that international measures to combat drug trafficking have not been effective in eliminating drug crime.”

Step 3: Conclusion

This is where you re-state your thesis, which in other words, is re-phrasing it.

Afterwards, re-state the points you have made, for the purpose of reinforcing your original point (thesis).

At this point, do not add any new examples or ideas, ever!

For example:  It is clear that issues of state sovereignty and the complexity of international cooperation have yet to be properly addressed with measures against international crime. This has resulted in a moderately effective system of combating international trade, people smuggling and money laundering. The inability of the law in allowing cooperation between nations, as well as a lack of understanding of the core of international crime is evident.

Check out this complete list on all HSC Legal Studies Crime Cases you will need to know!

Looking for extra help with HSC Legal Studies?

We pride ourselves on our inspirational hsc legal studies coaches and mentors.

We offer tutoring and mentoring for Years K-12 in a variety of subjects, with personalised lessons conducted one-on-one in your home or at one of our state of the art campuses in Hornsby or the Hills!

To find out more and get started with an inspirational tutor and mentor get in touch today !

Give us a ring on 1300 267 888, email us at  [email protected]  or check us out on  TikTok !

Sophia Zou  completed the HSC in a while back in 2013, however still considers it her mission here to help students make the most of their final years at high school. Her interests include political science, Simon and Garfunkel, and pretending to be a tea aficionado. Alongside tutoring at Art of Smart Education, she spends her time playing the piano and studying Government & IR and Languages at the University of Sydney.

• Topics: 📚 Study , ⚖️ Legal Studies

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Born a Crime — Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

• Categories: Born a Crime

About this sample

Words: 467 |

Published: Jan 29, 2024

Words: 467 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Cultural identity, racial dynamics, survival during a volatile time, analysis of literary techniques.

• Trevor Noah. (2016). Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood. Spiegel & Grau.
• Constitutional Rights Foundation. (n.d.). Apartheid and Racial Segregation. https://www.crf-usa.org/black-history-month/apartheid-and-racial-segregation
• McKaiser, E. (2016). Trevor Noah’s ‘Born a Crime’ is a story of resilience. Times Live. https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/books/2016-11-13-trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-is-a-story-of-resilience/

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Born a Crime

By trevor noah, born a crime essay questions.

What role does language play in Trevor Noah's experience of growing up in South Africa?

Noah does not fit readily into any community or culture, and he often feels isolated and lonely as a result. He learns that while people cannot control their skin color or appearance, they can make an effort to learn different languages, and he comes to notice that “language, even more than color, defines who you are to people” (p. 56). By speaking different languages, Noah is able to gain acceptance with different groups who initially treat him like an outsider and mistrust or even threaten him. While it cannot provide him with a deep sense of belonging, speaking multiple languages allows him to build connections, be adaptable, and fit in with different people. He notes that he gained this skill from watching his mother: “I learned to use language like my mother did . . . It became a tool that served me my whole life” (p. 55).

How does Trevor Noah's relationship with his father evolve over time?

When Patricia first wants to conceive a child, she reassures Robert that he does not have to be involved in the child's life at all. However, after Noah is born, Robert realizes he does want to play a role in his son's life. Although he cannot openly own the relationship because it is technically illegal for him to be the father of a mixed-race child, Robert makes an effort to regularly spend time with his son, and the two have an affectionate relationship. However, as Noah gets older, the two drift apart, and the presence of Abel in Noah's life also makes maintaining a relationship more complicated. Robert eventually moves to another city, and the two lose touch entirely. Patricia, however, insists that Noah track Robert down, explaining that “‘he’s a piece of you [...] and if you don’t find him you won’t find yourself’” (p. 101). When he is twenty-four, Noah reconnects with his father and is moved to find out that Robert knows all about his career and has been taking an interest in him. He knows it will take time to rebuild their relationship, but he is open to trying.

How is criminal activity depicted in the memoir?

Noah grows up in a world where violence is a regular occurence, and he is taught by his mother not to let a fear of criminal activity prevent him from living his life. He does not, however, have much direct exposure to petty crime until he starts spending time in a notoriously rough and impoverished neighborhood called Alexandra. He realizes there that for people in poverty, engaging in criminal activity can be morally ambiguous since they have few or no other options. As Noah explains, "Crime does the one thing the government doesn’t do: crime cares. Crime is grassroots. Crime looks for the young kids who need support and a lifting hand. Crime offers internship programs and summer jobs and opportunities for advancement. Crime gets involved in the community. Crime doesn’t discriminate” (p. 209). Nonetheless, he eventually realizes that hustling and petty crime are not going to get him anywhere in life and that things like theft are hurtful to the victims.

What is Trevor Noah's view of his mother? Does it change over time? If so, how? If not, what accounts for that constancy?

As a child, Noah is often frustrated by his mother's strict discipline and attempt to monitor his behavior. However, he also loves when they have fun together, and he appreciates how she makes everyday life adventurous. Even from a young age, Noah knows that his mother will stand up for him when she believes in his perspective, and that she expects people to treat him with respect. As he grows older, Noah appreciates his mother's strength and resilience, but he also becomes frustrated as to why she chooses to stay with Abel even after Abel becomes abusive. Eventually, Noah grows apart from his mother because he cannot relate to her decisions. However, he always sees her as the center of his life and feels loving and protective towards her. As he grows older, he comes to see that people are complex, and he develops more respect for the way his mother has lived her life.

What role does domestic violence play in the memoir?

Noah gradually introduces the theme that his stepfather Abel physically abuses both him and his mother. He sees this specific form of violence as part of a wider pattern of violence, exacerbated by social factors. Abel's problems with alcohol and violence are exacerbated by the fact that he is unsuccessful in his career and feels emasculated by the fact that Patricia is the breadwinner in the family. His traditional ideology around gender roles also makes him angry when Patricia refuses to listen to him or be submissive. While Noah clearly sees Abel as personally responsible for the violence he commits, he also notes that the legal and police systems in South Africa neither help nor support his mother. Patricia tries to report the violence, but the police refuse to help her, and her own mother encourages her to stay with her abusive husband. All of this context means that Patricia has few options for recourse.

Born a Crime Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Born a Crime is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What 3 things does trevor say they always had

Chapter please?

Explain Trevor's rationale for identifying Soweto driveways as a metaphor for Soweto's hope. What symbol do you indentify with hope? Explain why you chose this symbol

Trevor's rationale for identifying Soweto driveways as a metaphor for Soweto's hope is that the driveways represent tiny steps towards progress. He sees the driveways as symbols of transformation and possibility: even small changes can lead to big...

What rhetorical choice is used when Trevor Noah says that South Africa is a mix of old and new?

South Africa is a mix of the old and the new, the ancient and the modern, and South African Christianity is a perfect example of this. We adopted the religion of our colonizers, but most people held on to the old ancestral ways, too, just...

Study Guide for Born a Crime

Born a Crime study guide contains a biography of Trevor Noah, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Born a Crime
• Born a Crime Summary
• Born a Crime Video
• Character List

Essay Papers Writing Online

Writing a comprehensive and engaging response essay – a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of crafting a well-structured and persuasive analytical essay.

When it comes to composing a coherent and engaging response piece, a few key principles can make all the difference. Whether you are tasked with providing commentary on a literary work, expressing your thoughts on a thought-provoking article, or formulating a response to a challenging question, these strategies will help you create an insightful and effective essay.

The first step in crafting a remarkable response is to thoroughly comprehend the stimulus material. Carefully read, watch, or listen to the source material, taking note of the main ideas, key arguments, and underlying themes. By gaining a firm grasp of the content, you will be better equipped to analyze and evaluate the text, and ultimately, construct a pertinent and well-informed response.

Once you have a comprehensive understanding of the stimulus, it is crucial to organize your thoughts in a coherent manner. Begin by outlining the main points you plan to address in your essay. This will provide structure and clarity, ensuring that your response flows logically and effectively communicates your message. Use strong topic sentences to introduce each idea, and provide appropriate evidence or examples to support your claims. Employing these techniques will not only enhance the credibility of your response, but also engage and captivate your readers.

Understand the Assignment

Before starting to write a response essay, it is crucial to fully comprehend the requirements and expectations of the assignment. By understanding the assignment, you will be able to approach the essay with a clear focus and direction.

Take the time to carefully read the essay prompt and any accompanying materials. Pay attention to key words and phrases that indicate what is expected from you, such as “analyze,” “compare,” or “evaluate.” Understanding these instructions will help you determine the appropriate approach to take in your response.

Additionally, consider the context and purpose of the assignment. Is it a formal academic essay or a casual personal reflection? Understanding the intended audience and purpose of the assignment will guide your writing style and tone.

It is also important to be aware of any specific guidelines or formatting requirements provided by your instructor. These may include page length, citation style, or specific sources to include. Following these guidelines will ensure that you meet the necessary criteria and present a well-structured and organized response.

In summary, understanding the assignment is the first step to writing an effective response essay. By carefully reviewing the prompt, considering the context and purpose, and following any specific guidelines, you can ensure that your essay meets the requirements and fulfills its intended purpose.

Analyze the Source Material

When writing a response essay, it is crucial to thoroughly analyze the source material provided. This process involves carefully examining and understanding the key ideas, arguments, and evidence presented by the author without bias or preconceived notions. By effectively analyzing the source material, you can ensure that your response essay is well-informed, well-supported, and engaging.

First and foremost, it is important to read the source material attentively. Take the time to fully comprehend the main points and arguments put forth by the author. Look for any evidence or examples the author provides to support these arguments. Pay attention to the language and tone used, as well as any rhetorical devices employed, such as metaphors or analogies.

Once you have a solid understanding of the source material, it is essential to critically evaluate it. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments presented. Are the ideas logical and coherent? Is there sufficient evidence to support the claims? Look for any biases or assumptions that may be present in the text, and assess how they may impact the overall credibility of the author’s argument.

Additionally, it is important to consider the context in which the source material was written. Take into account the author’s background, expertise, and any potential biases they may have. Understanding the context can provide valuable insights into the author’s perspective and intentions, helping you to formulate a more nuanced and well-rounded response to the source material.

Finally, don’t be afraid to engage with the source material on a personal level. Think about how the ideas presented resonate with your own experiences, beliefs, or values. Consider any emotional or intellectual responses the material evokes. This personal engagement can add depth and authenticity to your response essay.

In conclusion, analyzing the source material is a critical step in writing an effective response essay. By carefully examining the key ideas, arguments, and evidence presented by the author, critically evaluating the text, considering the context, and engaging with the material personally, you can craft a well-informed and engaging response that adds value to the ongoing conversation.

Formulate a Clear Thesis Statement

In order to craft an effective response essay, it is crucial to formulate a thesis statement that clearly conveys your main argument or perspective on the given topic. The thesis statement serves as the foundation for your entire essay, outlining the central point you will be addressing and guiding the reader through your analysis.

When formulating your thesis statement, it is important to be concise, specific, and focused. Avoid vague or general statements that do not provide a clear direction for your essay. Instead, use precise language to articulate your main argument and ensure that it is accessible to readers.

Additionally, your thesis statement should be debatable, meaning that it allows for differing opinions or interpretations. This encourages critical thinking and engagement with your essay, as readers may have different perspectives on the topic at hand.

To ensure the clarity and effectiveness of your thesis statement, consider the following tips:

By formulating a clear thesis statement, you establish a strong foundation for your response essay and provide readers with a clear roadmap of your analysis. Take the time to carefully craft your thesis statement, considering its clarity, specificity, and debatability, to ensure the effectiveness of your essay.

Develop Strong Supporting Arguments

Crafting compelling and convincing arguments is crucial when writing a response essay. Your arguments should serve as evidence to support your claims and effectively communicate your perspective on the given topic. Developing strong supporting arguments involves careful analysis, critical thinking, and the ability to provide relevant examples or evidence to back up your ideas.

When developing your supporting arguments, it’s essential to consider the main points or themes of the essay prompt. By understanding the key concepts, you can identify the most relevant evidence or examples to support your arguments. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your arguments are logical, coherent, and well-structured to make your essay persuasive.

One effective way to develop strong supporting arguments is by conducting thorough research on the topic. This research could involve reading relevant books, articles, or studies, and gathering credible sources of information. By relying on factual evidence and expert opinions, you can strengthen the validity of your arguments and make your essay more convincing.

In addition to research, it’s beneficial to consider counterarguments. Anticipating opposing viewpoints and addressing them in your response essay demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the topic and strengthens your own arguments. By addressing counterarguments, you can present a well-rounded and balanced perspective, which enhances the credibility of your essay.

Overall, developing strong supporting arguments is crucial to the success of your response essay. By carefully analyzing the essay prompt, conducting thorough research, considering counterarguments, and crafting well-structured arguments, you can ensure that your essay effectively communicates your perspective and convinces your readers of your viewpoint.

Use Evidence and Examples

In order to strengthen your response essay and effectively convey your ideas, it is essential to use evidence and examples to support your arguments. By providing evidence and examples, you can demonstrate the validity of your viewpoint and make your essay more persuasive and compelling.

Using evidence involves citing relevant sources such as articles, books, or studies to back up your claims. These sources can provide factual information, expert opinions, or statistical data that support your arguments. By incorporating these sources into your essay, you show that your ideas are not just based on personal opinion, but are grounded in reliable and credible information.

In addition to using evidence, it is also important to use examples to illustrate your points. Examples can take the form of anecdotes, case studies, or real-life situations that help to clarify and emphasize your ideas. By using specific examples, you make your arguments more concrete and relatable to your readers.

When using evidence and examples in your response essay, it is crucial to ensure that they are relevant and directly support your main points. Avoid using unrelated or weak evidence that does not add value to your argument. Instead, focus on using evidence and examples that are strong, compelling, and directly related to the topic at hand.

Using evidence and examples effectively can greatly enhance the persuasiveness and impact of your response essay. By providing solid evidence and using relevant examples, you can strengthen your arguments and engage your readers, making your essay more convincing and thought-provoking.

Organize Your Thoughts and Ideas

When writing a response essay, it is important to structure your thoughts and ideas in a clear and logical manner. Without proper organization, your essay may lack coherence and fail to effectively convey your argument or analysis.

One way to organize your thoughts and ideas is by creating an outline. This allows you to visually map out the main points you want to make and establish a logical flow for your essay. Start by identifying the main thesis or argument of your response, and then break it down into subtopics or key supporting points.

Once you have established your outline, you can start drafting your essay. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or argument of that particular section. This will help guide your reader and ensure that your essay remains focused and cohesive.

In addition to creating an outline and using topic sentences, it is also important to use transitional words and phrases to connect your thoughts and ideas. This helps to establish a smooth flow between paragraphs and allows your reader to easily follow your train of thought.

Furthermore, consider organizing your essay using a structured format, such as the traditional introduction-body-conclusion format. This provides a clear framework for your essay and ensures that you cover all necessary points in a logical order.

Remember, organizing your thoughts and ideas is crucial for writing an effective response essay. By creating an outline, using topic sentences, utilizing transitional words and phrases, and employing a structured format, you can ensure that your essay is well-organized and effectively conveys your arguments and analysis.

Edit and Proofread Your Essay

Once you have completed the writing process for your response essay, it is crucial to edit and proofread your work before submitting it. This final step allows you to refine and polish your essay to ensure that it is clear, concise, and error-free.

Editing involves reviewing your essay for clarity and coherence. Read through your essay carefully, paying attention to the flow of your ideas and the logical progression of your arguments. Make sure that each paragraph is focused and supports your thesis statement. Consider the overall structure of your essay and make any necessary changes to enhance the organization and flow of your ideas.

Proofreading, on the other hand, focuses on eliminating grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation errors. Carefully go through your essay sentence by sentence, identifying any errors and correcting them. Pay attention to commonly confused words and ensure that you are using them correctly. Double-check the spelling of proper nouns and technical terms.

It can be helpful to read your essay aloud during the editing and proofreading process. This allows you to hear any awkward or unclear phrasing and make necessary revisions. Additionally, consider seeking feedback from others, such as peers or instructors, who can provide fresh perspectives and identify any areas that may need improvement.

Remember that editing and proofreading are essential steps in the writing process that should never be skipped. By taking the time to carefully review and revise your essay, you can ensure that it is effective and professional. Don’t underestimate the importance of attention to detail – it can make a significant difference in the overall quality of your essay.

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Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime Book Analysis Essay (Critical Writing)

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

The book Born a Crime by the famous comedian and political commentator Trevor Noah recollects his life experiences and struggles. The main plot of this book is Noah’s autobiography combined with his thoughts on his life. Noah writes about his upbringing during the Apartheid in South Africa, being a mixed-race child. At that time, his existence was considered a ‘crime’ during these years of extreme racial segregation. By reflecting on these experiences, Noah also questions the moral foundations of the concepts of politics, crime, and law. However, he does not only provide a description of his struggles but teaches the audience a lesson in success and resilience. Despite these unfavorable circumstances, he managed to become a successful entertainer known around the globe. Therefore, this story of Noah becomes the tale of resilience and self-preservation in the face of competing demands and adverse factors.

Every story of resilience and success starts with a struggle. In the case of Noah, his major challenge was his own existence during the Apartheid. Noah (2016) writes, “Because a mixed person embodies that rebuke to the logic of the system, race mixing becomes a crime worse than treason” (p. 21). Thus, he explains how his perception of crime and law has been different since his early childhood. It is often assumed that morality is connected to the basics of law. However, in the life of Noah, he realizes that people can make laws that are immoral at their core, as no moral law can outlaw the existence of an innocent child. Therefore, the crime and punishment become morally unjust but, at the same time, lawfully permissible, making it a definition of competing demand. This conflict makes self-preservation a core necessity in Noah’s life. In some way, the realization of the immorality of the segregation law becomes part of his self-preservation strategy. Noah does not label himself a criminal and surrender to the racist regime but strives to survive or, in other words, self-preserve.

Moreover, self-preservation is also reflected in different aspects of Noah’s life. The realization of the immorality of segregation does not hinder Noah but drives his free-thinking, which leads to the development of his career as a comedian. It allows him to know how to express people’s discontent with the current politics and the overall state of the world. Noah (2016) writes, “I don’t regret anything I’ve ever done in life, any choice that I’ve made. But I’m consumed with regret for the things I didn’t do, the choices I didn’t make, the things I didn’t say” (p. 143). It would be easy for Noah to submit to the fears, considering his traumatic childhood experiences. However, he chooses the risk of failure to be part of his life instead of inactivity. It shows his levels of resilience, and, in a way, it is a part of his self-preservation strategy. In a world full of competing demands, like in the case of segregation, Noah chooses self-preservation by taking the risk of speaking up. He realizes that being outspoken is crucial to change the world so that his existence will not ever again become a ‘crime’.

Overall, Noah’s book Born a Crime provides a valuable resource for not only studying the perspective of a survivor of the Apartheid but also tells the story of resilience and self-preservation. His unique journey starts with the dilemma of conflicting demands between his own existence and segregation law. Noah chooses self-preservation, which leads him not to surrender to fear but to develop necessary critical thinking skills and outspokenness. In a way, his life mission and career have roots in self-preservation to convince the world to eliminate competing demands that stem from the immorality of racism.

Noah, T. (2016). Born a crime: Stories from a South African childhood . Doubleday Canada.

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IvyPanda. (2024, January 15). Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis. https://ivypanda.com/essays/trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-book-analysis/

"Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis." IvyPanda , 15 Jan. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-book-analysis/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis'. 15 January.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-book-analysis/.

1. IvyPanda . "Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-book-analysis/.

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IvyPanda . "Trevor Noah's Born a Crime Book Analysis." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/trevor-noahs-born-a-crime-book-analysis/.

Born a Crime

100 pages • 3 hours read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay.

Differentiation Suggestion: For English learners or struggling writers, strategies that work well include graphic organizers, sentence frames or starters, group work, or oral responses.

Scaffolded Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the below bulleted outlines. Cite details from the text over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Under apartheid, Noah is governmentally categorized as “colored” (Chapter 2).

• Define the specific meaning of “colored” in apartheid South Africa. What does this mean for Noah, practically speaking? ( topic sentence )
• How did this system of categorization affect Noah’s sense of Identity and Race in Apartheid South Africa?
• In your conclusion, discuss how Noah defines the conventions of this label—as a child growing up, but also as an adult.

2. In Chapter 7, Noah tells the story of Fufi, his childhood dog.

• What is the purpose of the story of Fufi? ( topic sentence )
• Citing evidence from the text, explain what Noah means when he says that no one betrayed him more than Fufi.

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Anarchism is a social movement that seeks liberation from oppressive systems of control including but not limited to the state, governmentalism, capitalism, racism, sexism, ableism, speciesism, and religion. Anarchists advocate a self-managed, classless, stateless society without borders, bosses, or rulers where everyone takes collective responsibility for the health and prosperity of themselves and the environment.

"The Anarchist Response To Crime" Essay

I know this is unlikely to be very controversial here, but this is an essay called "The Anarchist Response To Crime". In my opinion, it is a load of bullshit wrong given that it recommends using (wait for it!) prisons, courts, and prisons in response to an arbitrarily made up thing called "crime". Am I right on that?

This is it: https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/scott-of-the-insurgency-culture-collective-the-anarchist-response-to-crime

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Trump indicted again in federal election interference case following Supreme Court immunity ruling

WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump has once again been indicted over his efforts to overturn his 2020 presidential election loss, an effort that culminated in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

A federal grand jury on Tuesday returned a superseding indictment that charges Trump with the same four counts he faced in the original indictment last August : conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding and conspiracy against rights.

The new indictment was returned following the Supreme Court's decision on presidential immunity last month , which barred the government from using certain "official acts" Trump took in his role as president in its prosecution.

“The superseding indictment, which was presented to a new grand jury that had not previously heard evidence in this case, reflects the Government’s efforts to respect and implement the Supreme Court’s holdings and remand instructions,” special counsel Jack Smith's office said in Tuesday's filing.

Trump blasted the new indictment as “shocking” and “a direct attack on democracy” in a string of social media posts. “The case has to do with ‘Conspiracy to Obstruct the 2020 Presidential Election,’ when they are the ones that did the obstructing of the Election, not me,” he wrote . His campaign also sent out a fundraising email within two hours of the filing, saying Trump was "just indicted again" and urging supporters to "stand with Trump" by donating.

While the charges are the same, some of the evidence has been whittled down in light of the Supreme Court's ruling, which expanded what could be considered official acts.

Gone from the superseding indictment are the sections that detailed Trump’s conversations with Justice Department officials in which he is alleged to have asked them to support his false claims of election fraud. Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark , who backed Trump's claims and was almost named acting attorney general, has been removed as an unindicted co-conspirator. Prosecutors also removed references to advice Trump got from or conversations he had with direct advisers in the Oval Office, like White House counsel Pat Cipollone, and references to some of his tweets from that period.

The new indictment also notes Vice President Mike Pence's role as president of the Senate on the day of the electoral vote count — Jan. 6, 2021 — in an apparent nod to concerns from the Supreme Court about whether evidence of Trump's campaign to get Pence to intervene in the count should be allowed. The Supreme Court ruling said, "Whenever the President and Vice President discuss their official responsibilities, they engage in official conduct," and there is therefore a "presumption of immunity" around their conversations. But the ruling also noted that Pence's responsibility of "'presiding over the Senate' is 'not an ‘executive branch’ function.”

Other parts of the new indictment are the same, with prosecutors again taking the position that Trump didn't actually believe the lies he was spreading in the wake of his 2020 election loss and that he knew that they were, in fact, lies.

“These claims were unsupported, objectively unreasonable, and ever-changing, and the Defendant and his co-conspirators repeated them even after they were publicly disproven," the indictment says. "These claims were false, and the Defendant knew that they were false."

While many Jan. 6 defendants have told courts that they now recognize they were tricked and lament that they were “gullible” enough to fall for the misinformation about the 2020 election that Trump promoted , Trump himself has never publicly admitted that he realizes he was spreading misinformation.

Trump's state of mind will be a major issue at a future trial , which won't take place before Election Day and could be complicated if he wins. If Trump is victorious, he or his appointees would almost certainly kill the case, as well as other Jan. 6 prosecutions: Trump has referred to Capitol rioters as " hostages " and " unbelievable patriots ," and he has indicated he would pardon many, if not all, Jan. 6 defendants. (Trump said he would "absolutely" consider pardoning every Jan. 6 criminal defendant, but his campaign has said pardons would be issued case by case.)

Trump's legal team had prepared for the possibility of a new indictment, according to a source familiar with the defense team's thinking, but believes the revised indictment still contains "fatal" flaws under the Supreme Court's reasoning.

“We don’t think they’ll be able to prove this was all purely campaign-related,” the source added, suggesting the timing works in the former president's favor.

The defense team is expected to ask for briefing schedule to argue why the superseding indictment should be dismissed too — a process that could drag out for months.

Trump's original challenge on immunity grounds led U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan to fr e eze the underlying case in December while he appealed. The case was returned to her court this month; the defense and the prosecution are scheduled to file a joint status report Friday laying out their proposed schedules for proceeding.

Any litigation on pending immunity questions must be settled before other action in the case, the Supreme Court ruling said. That could take multiple forms, from a public evidentiary hearing with witnesses or a fully on-paper process consisting of multiple rounds of briefings followed by written rulings from the judge.

Trump is also using the immunity ruling to fight his conviction on charges of falsifying business record in New York. His attorneys contend that the indictment in that case should be dismissed because the grand jury was presented with evidence of official acts — tweets and conversations with advisers — that shouldn't have been considered.

A new grand jury brought the new indictment in the federal case. The slimmed-down allegations could also be a way for prosecutors to avoid extensive fights over evidence they were concerned wouldn't be allowed because of the Supreme Court ruling.

Ryan J. Reilly is a justice reporter for NBC News.

Daniel Barnes reports for NBC News, based in Washington.

Dareh Gregorian is a politics reporter for NBC News.

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CHICAGO -- An hourslong SWAT standoff ended early Wednesday with the arrest of a suspect in New City on the South Side.

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The situation began just before 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, when officers on patrol in the 5300 block of South Racine Avenue heard gunfire and then spotted someone who barricaded themselves in a home, prompting a SWAT response, police said.

Shortly after 3:30 a.m., the suspect was arrested without incident, police said.

No further information was available.

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Cincinnati gas station clerk shoots, kills alleged would-be robber

by David Winter, WKRC

PADDOCK HILLS, Ohio (WKRC) - A man who allegedly attempted to rob a convenience store in Paddock Hills is dead after the clerk apparently shot him.

The incident happened just before 3 a.m. at the BP station on the corner of Reading Road and Tennessee Avenue. Police are saying very little other than a man was shot there at about 2:50 a.m. Paramedics arrived and tried to save him, but were unsuccessful.

The details that Local 12 dug up came from the people who work at the store, radio traffic, and court documents. The first call came in at 2:49 a.m.

“Attention all cars. Report of a possible shooting at BP at 4545 Reading," said dispatch.

Surveillance video from the Gold Star across the street showed police arriving within two minutes. Inside the BP, 57-year-old Dana Bruenton lay on the floor, dying from a gunshot wound.

“Channels, clerk saying he just shot someone,” said one policeman.

“Right now, it’s extremely life-threatening,” said the policeman. “Sounds like they’re going to transport possibly.”

Bruenton would be taken to UC Medical Center, but was pronounced dead shortly after.

Clerks at the BP station said that Bruenton came in demanding money. They said that their co-worker opened the register, but when Bruenton demanded the clerk get on the ground, he refused, and a struggle ensued. They said that the owner keeps a gun behind the counter. The clerk then grabbed it and shot Bruenton.

JJ Wilbon is a BP patron who said she normally hangs out with friends into the early morning hours in the parking lot there.

“Normally, I'm here, but I wasn't here [this time]," said Wilbon.

She said that the clerk involved in the shooting is a good-natured guy.

“[A] sense of humor. Pretty much minds his business,” said Wilbon.

Local 12 asked her if the clerk was someone she would think would be involved in something like this.

“Not at all,” said Wilbon. “Not at all.”

Bruenton, on the other hand, has a rap sheet dating back to the 1980s, including at least two crimes that sent him to prison: an aggravated robbery in 1992 and an assault in 2007. Then, a month ago, police arrested Bruenton for allegedly attacking someone with a wrench. Three weeks ago, officers arrested him for allegedly attempting to steal groceries from a Kroger.

Wilbon said that she thinks the clerk was justified in shooting Bruenton.

“Sometimes you gotta pick and choose your battles,” said Wilbon.

“And this time he chose to battle,” Local 12 said.

"He chose to battle," said Wilbon.

Local 12 then asked her if she thought that it was the right decision.

“I do. I do,” said Wilbon. “I hate for someone to lose their life like that, but it is what it is.”

Police aren't confirming the clerk's rendition of what happened. The owner of the store told us that his employee was questioned by police after the incident and then released.