"Code of the Street" and Social Learning Theory

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the text, "Code of the Street: Decency, Violence, and the Moral Life of the Inner City" by Elijah Anderson. The book is analyzed based on how it reflects four major tenets of strain theory, social learning theory, control theory, and labeling theory.

From the Paper:

"The first of these social theories that is demonstrated within Anderson's text is that of Strain Theory. In strain theory, it is argued that social structures that are constructed and adopted by society can cause the society's citizens to commit crime. First of all, Anderson does not demean or belittle the actions that many "criminals" in the inner-city perform during their daily lives. He argues that in this sector of society, there is a "code" and a decency that its citizens live by, not arguing that this is morally right, but showing that it is a code and manner of life, nonetheless. These are not merely subhumans going about criminal lives; this is a living, working society that adheres to its own standards and rules."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Anderson, E. (1999). Code of the street: Decency, violence, and the moral life of the inner city. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.

More papers on "Code of the Street" and Social Learning Theory:

• Analytical Essay # 133452 : "Anderson's "Code of the Street"
• Research Paper # 109756 : "School Shootings and Social Learning Theory"

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