Reimagining Crime: Jeffrey Reiman’s Perspective on “A Dangerous Business”

  Reimagining Crime: Jeffrey Reiman’s Perspective on “A Dangerous Business” In his thought-provoking chapter “Crime by Any Other Name,” Jeffrey Reiman challenges conventional notions of what constitutes a crime. His alternative perspective prompts us to reevaluate our understanding of crime and its perpetrators. When examining the events presented in the PBS Frontline video “A Dangerous Business–Revisited,” we can view them through the lens of Reiman’s ideas. This essay will discuss how Reiman would define crime, how his definition differs from conventional thinking, the specific examples of “crimes by any other name” that occurred in McWane foundries, and the reasons why these events should be considered crimes and who should be held accountable. According to Reiman, crime goes beyond the traditional understanding of illegal activities that harm individuals or property. He argues that crime should be defined as actions or inactions that cause serious harm, regardless of whether they are legally classified as crimes. Reiman challenges the prevailing notion that crime is solely limited to street crimes committed by individuals from marginalized backgrounds. Instead, he suggests that crimes can be committed by powerful institutions and individuals in positions of authority, such as corporations and government officials. This definition of crime diverges from conventional thinking, which tends to focus on violations of specific laws and regulations. Reiman’s broader perspective encompasses a range of harmful actions that may not be explicitly categorized as crimes but have severe consequences for individuals and society as a whole. In the McWane foundries case presented in “A Dangerous Business–Revisited,” several examples align with Reiman’s concept of “crimes by any other name.” These examples include: Workplace Injuries: The documentary highlights numerous cases of severe workplace injuries that occurred at McWane foundries. Workers suffered amputations, burns, and other life-altering injuries due to unsafe working conditions and inadequate safety measures. Environmental Contamination: McWane foundries were responsible for significant environmental contamination through the improper disposal of hazardous materials. This contamination posed health risks to both workers and nearby communities. Medical Negligence: The company’s inadequate healthcare provisions and failure to address workers’ medical needs resulted in preventable deaths and serious health complications. Reiman argues that these incidents should be considered crimes rather than mere accidents or minor regulatory violations. He emphasizes that these harms are not random occurrences but are often the result of systemic issues and deliberate choices made by those in positions of power. By labeling these actions as crimes, Reiman seeks to hold accountable the responsible parties who prioritize profits over the well-being and safety of workers. In terms of culpability, Reiman assigns blame to various individuals within the McWane foundries. The owners, plant managers, and supervisors bear significant responsibility for their role in creating and perpetuating a culture of disregard for safety and well-being. They prioritize profit margins and production quotas over ensuring a safe working environment. Their decisions and actions contribute directly to the harm experienced by workers. However, Reiman also acknowledges that others within the organization may share some degree of blame. This could include employees who turn a blind eye to safety violations or fail to report concerns due to fear of repercussions or job loss. Additionally, regulatory agencies and government officials who neglect their responsibility to enforce adequate workplace safety standards also share culpability. In conclusion, Reiman’s perspective on crime challenges conventional thinking by expanding the definition beyond legal classifications. When analyzing the events presented in “A Dangerous Business–Revisited,” we can see how Reiman’s ideas apply. Workplace injuries, environmental contamination, and medical negligence observed at McWane foundries align with his concept of “crimes by any other name.” Reiman argues that these incidents should be treated as crimes rather than accidents or minor regulatory violations due to their severe impact on individuals’ well-being and society as a whole. The owners, plant managers, supervisors, and even regulatory agencies bear varying degrees of responsibility for these crimes. By adopting Reiman’s perspective, we can foster a more comprehensive understanding of crime and hold those in power accountable for their actions that cause serious harm.

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