Criminology Term: White-collar Crime
White-collar crime is a term within criminology that refers to non-violent, financially motivated offenses typically committed by individuals or organizations in positions of trust and authority.
Unlike traditional street crimes, such as theft or assault, white-collar crimes are characterized by their concealment and the use of deception or manipulation.
Common examples of white-collar crimes include embezzlement, insider trading, tax evasion, and corporate fraud. These offenses often involve complex financial transactions and are driven by the pursuit of financial gain or maintaining a competitive edge in the business world.
White-collar crimes can have far-reaching societal consequences, impacting not only individual victims but also entire economies and communities. Detecting and prosecuting white-collar criminals can be challenging due to the intricate nature of these offenses, often requiring specialized investigative techniques and regulatory oversight.
Studying white-collar crime within the field of criminology helps us understand the dynamics of corporate misconduct, regulatory failures, and the need for effective measures to prevent and address these offenses.
It underscores the importance of holding individuals and organizations accountable for their actions in the pursuit of justice and the protection of society's financial well-being.
