Social Inequality and Crime Control

Abstract

Almost all quantitative research on the determinants of variation in the allocation of public resources to crime control is done within the framework of either rational public choice theory or conflict theory. The rational public choice theory is rooted in notions of economic efficiency, social consensus, and relatively conflict-free democratic political processes. The conflict theory views conflicting interests, exploitation, and differences in power as the essence of politics. Rarely, however, has research tested the relative ability of the two theories to explain political outcomes. This study is an attempt to carry out such a test by considering the sources of variation in the size of urban police departments over time.

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