White-Collar Crime and Criminal Careers

In a groundbreaking exploration of criminal behavior, this work shifts the academic lens from the conventional focus on street crime to the often overlooked world of white-collar crime. The authors delve into the nuances of criminal careers, emphasizing that the motivations and consequences of such crimes differ significantly from those typically observed in common criminality. They challenge long-standing paradigms within criminology, suggesting that the intricacies of white-collar offenses warrant a deeper understanding.

Through detailed research and analysis, Weisburd, Waring, and Chayet illuminate patterns in white-collar criminality, examining the socio-economic contexts that enable such behaviors. They reveal how individuals from privileged backgrounds engage in unethical practices that can have far-reaching consequences, impacting not just corporate interests but entire communities. The authors also discuss the criminal justice system's response to these offenders, indicating a disparity in treatment compared to traditional crime.

This work ultimately serves as an essential resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, providing insights that advocate for a more comprehensive approach to the study of crime. By broadening the conversation around criminal careers, it opens the door to addressing the complexities and realities of white-collar crime in today’s society.