Crime In Caracas
Crime in Caracas
Individuals are not only shaped by social factors, but through cultural and environmental factors as well. Societies are constantly changing, and there are many issues and trends that are confronting the global society today. Through sociological perspectives and concepts, one can better understand what is causing these world issues. By studying these perspectives and concepts, students can see how the physical environment and society affect the life choices of individuals.
There are a number of countries located in Latin America. Among these countries, there are a number of sociological issues facing the population of Venezuela. The issue that is most important is the violent crime rate of its capital city.
The violent crime rate is said to be one of the top five causes of death in Latin America. Homicides, kidnapping, and burglary are among the main types of crime in these countries (Beato). With a population well over twenty-four million, it is no wonder that violent crime is an issue in Venezuela. The country has one of the highest per-capita murder rates in the world; Caracas, which is the capital of Venezuela, has just recently been named the world’s most dangerous city (Spengler). Armed robberies take place in broad daylight throughout this city, including areas frequented by tourists and generally presumed safe. A common technique of a criminal is to choke the victim into unconsciousness and then rob them of all their belongings. Well armed criminal gangs operate without punishment, and they often set up fake police checkpoints. Kidnapping is definitely a serious problem in Venezuela, with more than 1,000 people reported missing during the past year alone (Crime Warning). What are the reasons for this high crime rate? There is not one particular answer for this problem; social inequalities, un-organization of cities, excessive alcohol consumption, and easy access to acquire and carry firearms are all...
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