Which theory focuses on reducing crime by addressing underlying social inequalities and justice?

• A. Right realism
• B. Labelling theory
• C. Left realism
• D. Social structure

Answer: (C)

The approach that focuses on reducing crime by addressing underlying social inequalities and justice is left realism. It treats crime as a real social issue that arises from relative deprivation and unfair social conditions, and it argues that practical reforms—such as improving housing, education, employment opportunities, and making the justice system fair and accessible—can lessen crime. It also supports community-level policing and policies aimed at reducing inequalities, because tackling these root causes is seen as a direct way to lower crime rates. In contrast, right realism centers on deterrence and control, labelling theory focuses on how being labeled can push people further into deviance, and structural ideas describe how poverty and inequality shape crime but don’t inherently prescribe the same targeted policy mix for justice and social reform.