Consumption in Crime: Fashion as the Construction of a Criminal Self in Society

Abstract

The overarching aim of this article is to explore criminal recidivism. Criminal recidivism is one of the largest problems for correctional institutions and thus ambition in Western countries. In particular, we aim to provide a partial explanation as to why some correctional ambitions worldwide frequently have such a low success rate in dealing with recidivism in general.  The objects of analysis in this study are criminals as a distinct group of citizens, outsiders if you will, a them in an us-and-them dichotomy. The results of the study then become an explanation that can be portrayed in terms of a trajectory of meaning in a process over time.  Here we consider the consumption of crime as being similar to the consumption of fashion recognized in a personal role and identity. Fashion is chosen as an example of consumption that pertains to desire and hence to longing for a better life.