Revisiting Sutherland: Expanding the Scope of White-Collar Crime in Modern Society

Dr Neel Mani Tripathi

PhD, Assistant General Manger (Law), Food Corporation of India

---

Abstract

This paper delves into the groundbreaking work of criminologist Edwin Sutherland, who in 1930 first introduced the term 'white-collar crime,' a concept previously unrecognized. Sutherland's analysis of the immoral activities of businessmen and other high-status individuals who exploited their positions for financial gain significantly altered the criminological landscape.

Prior to Sutherland's work, criminal acts by the upper strata of society often remained unnoticed due to their indirect impact and the unawareness of the victims. His contributions highlighted the betrayal of trust inherent in such crimes and their significant societal implications. This research critically evaluates Sutherland's perspective, which initially suggested that white-collar crime was confined to the upper social echelons and was occupational in nature.

The paper also addresses the criticisms of Sutherland's definition, pointing out its limitations and the need for a broader understanding of white-collar crime. It explores how subsequent scholars have expanded on Sutherland's original concept, considering a range of illegal and unethical acts committed for material gain, not necessarily limited to a certain social class or occupational context. This study proposes a more inclusive definition of white-collar crime, encompassing acts that may be legal but unethical, and emphasizes the role of professional knowledge and social position in their commission.

Keywords: Edwin Sutherland, white-collar crime, financial crime, criminological evolution

Read Full