Control Theorists Claim That They Take Deviance for Granted and Want

question 30

Essay

Control theorists claim that they take deviance for granted and want to explain conformity, but Akers and Sellers argue that the questions and assumptions in control theory do not differ much from those in other theories. Discuss this issue, indicating its relevance or lack of relevance for theories of crime and delinquency. What position would you take on the issue?

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Definitions:

Utility Function

A mathematical representation of how different bundles of goods or services are ranked in terms of their utility or satisfaction to a consumer.

Marginal Rate of Substitution

The rate at which a consumer is willing to substitute one good for another while maintaining the same level of utility.

Good X

A symbolic term often used in economics to represent any generic commodity or product under consideration for analysis.

Units

Measurements or quantities ascertained by established standards used for trading, scientific experiments, and other purposes.