You should use in-text citations to document information that is not “common knowledge”. Construct your essays in your own words, do not simply cut and paste from your reading materials.
There are ten essay questions for each of the four Assignments. Unless marked otherwise, there are ten possible points for each of the essay questions below. Your final grade is the total of your two Assignment scores. Good Luck and Good Writing!
Assignment #1: Introduction to WCC, Environmental and Work Place Hazards, Deadline for submission is 27 June at midnight. There is a five-point penalty per day for late submissions.
1) What is the original definition of White-Collar Crime? Of course, the original got a lot of criticism, in your opinion, which of those concerns are the most valid? Explain. Given your analysis, what is a workable definition of WCC? Lastly, explain why WCC is an important concept in the field of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
2) One of the problems in measuring WCC is that many times it is unreported. Why this is the case. Is it possible to create better databases? If so, how?
3) One of the distinguishing characteristics between WCC and Index Offenses is that the former is non-violent. Critically evaluate this argument, be sure to use examples to illustrate your position.
4) As a WCC scholar, you must explain how a Ponzi Scheme actually works, so use the internet to locate a current example in order to illustrate your points. In your discussion do not assume that the reader has prior knowledge of the concept. Lastly, compare and contrast your selection with any Ponzi scheme in your course materials.
5) Compare and contrast the two case studies Barry Minkow and Dennis Kozlowski. In terms of legal liability and criminal culpability which was the more serious offender? Explain. Was the CJS response to their actions adequate? Explain.
6) Compare and contrast the two case studies: The Love Canal, NY and the case against the Monsanto Corp in Anniston, AL. Evaluate these in terms of environmental policy and legal liability. Did the CJS work in these two cases, explain.
7) Coal company operators and owners, do you see examples of WC criminality or are these folks simply involved in an industry that is inherently dangerous? Examine both of these positions and articulate your position on this industry as a WC Criminologist.
8) The EPA comes into a small manufacturing plant to gather water samples. Agents show up in tactical gear, what are the pros and cons of this approach? Also, suppose the EPA fabricated a chemical report to make it appear a small business is in violation of water purity standards. Is the EPA liable for damages? Briefly explain.
9) Analyze either the case study on the disposal of Toxic E-Waste or Combustible Dust in the workplace, and discuss the related WCC issues. What were the lessons learned in terms of policy development related to your choice?
10) On paper, experts and investigators agree that the Deep-Water Horizon should have survived the blowout. Discuss why the safety protocols did not work. In your assessment, be sure to address whether the errors were technological or human in nature. Was the legal settlement a fair one? Explain.
