What does Sutherland define as white collar crime?

Sutherland defines white-collar crime as a crime committed by a person of respectability and high social status in the course of their occupation. This definition is significant because it highlights the context and social status of the individual committing the crime, rather than the severity of the act itself. White-collar crime includes various types of fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and other violations that are often committed within the framework of professional responsibilities.

By focusing on the status of the perpetrator, Sutherland emphasizes how these crimes can be overlooked or downplayed compared to conventional street crimes. The implications of white-collar crime can be extensive, often leading to considerable financial loss for individuals and organizations, as well as a broader societal impact. This understanding positions white-collar crime as not merely a criminal act but also a reflection of power dynamics and social hierarchies in society.

In contrast, other options limit the definition in ways that do not encompass the full scope of what Sutherland intended. For example, suggesting that white-collar crime occurs only in corporate settings restricts the range of environments where such crimes can happen, ignoring instances in governmental or institutional contexts. Similarly, classifying white-collar crime as less harmful than street crime overlooks the substantial