Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Radical Victimology draws attention to the way in which the criminal justice system functions and focuses on human rights, and it also shows how the oppressor, the State, the social order and the privileged persons in the community victimize certain sections of the people in the society.
Reason R: It assumes that society is made up of many conflicting groups. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.
• B. Both A and R are correct but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
• C. A is correct but R is not correct.
• D. A is not correct but R is correct.

Hint:

Radical Victimology focuses on “structural victimization,” where inequality, power imbalance, and state actions themselves create victims.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:

• Radical Victimology is a branch of victimology that applies 'Conflict Theory' (Marxist/Critical perspectives) to the study of victims.
• It argues that the definition of a "victim" is socially constructed by those in power.

Step 1: Evaluate Assertion A
Radical victimologists (like Mawby and Walklate) focus on 'structural victimization'. They argue that the State and its laws often victimize the poor and marginalized while protecting the privileged. This statement accurately reflects the core focus of Radical Victimology. Assertion A is correct.

Step 2: Evaluate Reason R
Radical Victimology is rooted in the Conflict Model of society. Unlike the Consensus Model (where everyone agrees on rules), the Conflict Model assumes that society consists of groups with competing interests. The powerful group uses the law to maintain its dominance over others. Reason R is correct.

Step 3: Determine the connection
The reason why radical victimology views the State and social order as "oppressors" (A) is because it assumes society is a battleground of conflicting groups (R) where the law is a tool of the powerful. Thus, R explains the logic behind A.

Step 4: Final Conclusion
Both statements are true, and R is the correct underlying sociological explanation for A. Option (A) is correct.