Character Quote by Freda Adler
“Stripped of ethical rationalizations and philosophical pretensions, a crime is anything that a group in power chooses to prohibit.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Ethics and Power, 2015
A crime is defined not by moral reasoning but by the authority that declares it illegal, highlighting power’s role in law.
In simple terms: Crime is what those in power forbid.
Key Takeaway
Question authority’s definition of legality.
Themes
law
power
ethics
social control
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- legal reform
- civil disobedience
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
political theory
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides what is criminal?
- What are the consequences of power‑driven laws?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused, making definitions arbitrary.
