What period does Young refer to as the 'Golden Age' of modern capitalist society?

The 'Golden Age' of modern capitalist society, as referred to by Young, encompasses the 1950s and 1960s. This period is characterized by significant economic prosperity, widespread employment, and a notable increase in living standards in many Western countries. During this time, the post-World War II economic boom led to a strong consumer culture, enhanced social mobility, and the expansion of welfare states, which contributed to an overall sense of security and optimism in society.

Young's reference to this era highlights the contrast with later periods, where economic challenges, unemployment, and social dislocation began to emerge, painting the 1950s and 1960s as a distinctive and relatively stable time in the context of capitalist development. This context is essential in understanding the subsequent shifts in social dynamics, crime rates, and perceptions of deviance in later decades.