RT Article
T1 The evolution of a social problem: the case of the switchblade knife
JF Deviant behavior
VO 45
IS 2
SP 287
OP 299
A1 Jones, Adrian M.
A2 Fuller, Dan
LA English
YR 2024
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1880323621
AB We illustrate the evolution of a social problem by describing the history of the switchblade knife and claims used by moral entrepreneurs to change the switchblade’s legal status in American. To investigate this issue, we conduct a historical-event analysis using legal documents, newspapers, magazines, advertisements, books, and testimonials. We argue that the switchblade’s deviant status evolved not from the objective harm it caused, but rather, from sensational claims made by moral entrepreneurs. In our analysis, politicians successfully singled out and redefined the switchblade as a vicious weapon with no legitimate civilian use and created concern for this particular knife by drawing attention to its associations with a dangerous class and criminal behavior. Additionally, we show how politico-moral entrepreneurs utilize sensational claims and sketchy data to create, proliferate, and regulate a new social problem. We conclude by discussing the role of power regarding the ability to define and regulate social problems.
NO Literaturverzeichnis: Seite 298-299
K1 Soziale Probleme
K1 Konstruktion
K1 Medien
K1 Politik
DO 10.1080/01639625.2023.2245105