The deliveries cannot stop: Ecological (dis) advantages and socio-spatial safety tactics against predatory crimes among Brazilian couriers

In this article we discuss the reactions and responses of Brazilian motorcycle couriers (motoboys) to the risk of predatory crimes. We show that they work two simultaneous and overlapping "shifts": the first involves carrying out their professional responsibilities, and the second, reducin...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Machado, Eduardo Paes (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2010
In: Crime, law and social change
Year: 2010, Volume: 54, Issue: 3/4, Pages: 241-261
Online Access: Presumably Free Access
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Summary:In this article we discuss the reactions and responses of Brazilian motorcycle couriers (motoboys) to the risk of predatory crimes. We show that they work two simultaneous and overlapping "shifts": the first involves carrying out their professional responsibilities, and the second, reducing the opportunities for victimization presented by those responsibilities. We analyse the socio-spatial tactics they adopt with a view to optimising security. These involve restricting their interactions and negotiations with neighbours and customers, as well as with criminals to guarantee that the deliveries are made and also to manage the various risks associated with working in different ecological areas. We explore the effect of these tactics on their activities, on labour relations and on attitudes to their customers in the delivery business. It concludes that both negotiation types point towards a process of expanding interactions, creating alternative distribution networks and seeking methods of protection against risks that cannot be overcome simply by the couriers protecting themselves.
Item Description:Literaturverzeichnis: Seite 260-261
ISSN:1573-0751
DOI:10.1007/s10611-010-9247-4