For centuries, individuals have been attempting to reveal universal trends which universally present themselves in human nature. While much attention has been given to revealing positive human characteristics, even more attention has been given to attempting to remedy its negative elements. Through modern technology and social theory, scientists have begun to discover trends between variables which would have been unimaginable in earlier times. One great example of this research is reflected in the studies of social scientist Emile Durkheim. What made Durkheim's research unique was that suicide which is arguably the most intrinsic act any individual can carry out. Through macro level research he was able to draw parallels and correlations about the societal factors which influenced its rates. In turn, drawing correlations between certain elements pertaining to increased levels of crime can have beneficial effects on society. Moreover, if correlations are demonstrated, institutions can enact bills and programs which can reduce these aggregating factors. While an experimental research design would be ideal for determining these aggregating factors, a correlational study is very useful as it allows researchers to determine possible relationships that may exist. In turn, by examining previously gathered data from several different sources, one could undoubtedly demonstrate several relationships between crime and several other hypothesized elements. Given the lack of specification, the present study has the ability to examine a variety of unique and seemingly unrelated variables. Although most of the independent variables and hypotheses are based on previous research studies, there are a number of new and unique variables being examined. Therefore, the present correlational study seeks to determine whether or not seemingly independent variables have had a relationship to violent and property crime within the United States.
[...] and crime rates, it was only logical to include unemployment rates in the present study. Logically speaking, it seems rational that when individuals are unable to obtain legitimate sources of income that they will undoubtedly begin resorting to other means for survival. One interesting article in this field dealt specifically with the effects of unemployment on all of the major felonies such as rape and murder. Through the analysis of census data and information from the uniform crime report, Raphael and Winter (2001) discovered two alarming trends. [...]
[...] When this study began examining the role that political ideologies would play in crime rates and economics, it seems highly unlikely that any correlations would be drawn. Nevertheless, after gathering research regarding traditional polarized views held by American political parties, it became possible to draw possible conclusions. If one examines the hypothesis presented in the literature review which states that individuals from lower SES backgrounds tend to be Democrats, whereas richer individuals tend to be Republicans, they can see some interesting trends in the present data (Abramowitz et al: 2005). [...]
[...] After reviewing a meta-analysis of the literature regarding racial inequality and crime rates, it was concluded that it was worth examining in the present study. This article reviewed made the claim that the murder rate for black males in the united states was 1 in 21; whereas the rate was 1 in 131 for white males (Sampson & Wilson :1995). They went on to suggest that black males are disproportionately victimized and involved in criminal violence. They suggested that one reason for this had to do with the ecological location or groupings faced by low income groups. [...]
[...] Measure After examining the general concepts and theories pertaining to this field, it is now possible to outline the Independent & Dependent Variables being implemented within this Study: Independent Variables Income Per Capita– this ratio level variable represents the mean income per person residing within each state for 2005. Unemployment Rate This ratio level variable illustrates the percentage of unemployed Americans in each state for the year 2005. KWH Per Capita - this variable depicts the mean energy use for each person residing within the state for the entire year of 2005. [...]
[...] The third issue which is being reviewed in this correlational study is the relationship between minority representation and crime rates. Given the research regarding racial inequality in the United States, it will be interesting to see if their hypotheses are replicated. Furthermore, if a correlation presents itself in this area, it will undoubtedly come under harsh criticism. Nevertheless, this study will attempt to demonstrate both racial inequalities by comparing black representation and SES related factors by state. The fourth piece of data being analyzed in this study is whether or not the average KWH of electricity used per capita has any relation to crime rates. [...]
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