Criminal behavior patterns and theoretical perspectives

Criminal Behavior

Over the last several years, the issue of white collar crimes and terrorism has been increasingly brought to the forefront. This is because both kinds of illegal activities had devastating effects on various stakeholders. To fully understand their impact requires comparing the similarities, differences and what conclusions can be drawn. Together, these elements will highlight the overall scope of these activities and their lasting impact on everyone. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)

Post at least two similarities and two differences between characteristics of white-collar offenders and characteristics terrorists.

Two similarities between white collar criminals and terrorists include: they are focusing on conducting their activities elusively and they will often utilize similar tactics to achieve their overall objectives. As far as conducting their activities secretly, both want to hide what they are doing from public officials and law enforcement. This means that they will often blend in with society to avoid detection. Over the course of time, this allows them to appear to be normal until they are finally discovered. This is when the scope of their illegal dealings will become known and the damage to society will occur. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)

Moreover, they will often utilize similar tactics to conceal illicit activities from law enforcement, regulators and the general public. For instance, in these crimes the perpetrators are known for utilizing: money laundering, identity theft and immigration fraud to hide from detection. This is designed to ensure they can continue with their operations in order to achieve their larger goals. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)

The difference between these kinds of criminals include: the primary objectives of their operations and the rationale behind them. In the case of white collar crimes, the individual will often conduct their activities for the benefit of themselves. Whereas terrorists, are focused on achieving idealistic goals that are concentrating on creating destruction, severely weakening their adversaries and making the general public fearful about conducting routine activities. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)

The rationale behind white collar crimes is based upon self-interest and greed. While terrorists, are more ideological and want to create some kind of lasting change through a campaign of violence. As a result, while collar criminals want to maintain the status quo in order to continue to reap these benefits. However, the terrorists want to create radical changes to the system or the policies of various governmental entities. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)

Describe possible conclusions which can be drawn based upon this comparison.

Possible conclusions which can be drawn are that both kinds of activities will utilize the same kinds of tools and tactics. This is a part of a larger strategy that is based upon deception in achieving their objectives. These areas allow them to avoid detection and to blend in with everyday society. (Kane, 2005) ("Terrorist Links to Other Crimes," 2007)