Greed is Good: Maximization and Elite Deviance in America

(Hardback)

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Centered on the concept of "Maximization," Matthew B. Robinson and Dr. Daniel S. Murphy offer a new theory of elite deviance and corporate crime called contextual anomie/strain theory. Exploring how simultaneous use of legitimate (i.e., legal) and illegitimate (i.e., deviant or illegal) means of opportunity in pursuit of one's goals, Greed is Good explains various forms of elite deviance and corporate crime. Contextual anomie/strain theory posits that although everyone in American society experiences stress and frustration association with American Dream, there are certain contexts in American society that produce even greater stress, frustration, and pressures toward crime. One such context is the corporate workplace. This book affirms how deviance and criminality have become normal in big business due to pressure to produce massive profits at the expense of all other considerations.

Reviews

In the midst of the present huge financial crisis, this book could hardly be more timely. The authors offer a novel theoretical framework for enriching our understanding of crimes of the rich and powerful. Matthew Robinson's previous books have been noteworthy additions to the criminological literature. In collaboration with Daniel Murphy, he has once again made a thought-provoking contribution to the field, from which the current generation of students has much to learn. -- David O. Friedrichs, professor & Distinguished University Fellow, University of Scranton and author of Trusted Criminals: White Collar Crime In C
This book is a well-written introduction to crime in America. Undergraduates would generally have no problems reading this work as the material is organized well and presented very clearly. The theory is both simple and clearly presented as minor extension of Anomie theory. The major strength of this book is that it is well-written and presents both the concept of coperate crime and the authors' theory in a clear and concise manner. -- Randolph Grinc, associate professor of sociology and criminal justice, Caldwell College

Author Bio

Daniel Murphy is assistant professor of criminal justice at Appalachian State University. Matthew Robinson is associate professor of criminal justice at Appalachian State.