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Yakuza Essay

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Application of Criminological Principles to the Yakuza Bridger Mortensen Sheridan College Spring 2023 Criminology Jessie Ludikhuize May 10, 2023 Application of Criminological Principles on the Yakuza The Yakuza is an organized crime syndicate that is based in Japan, that to this day has existed for around 300 years and is still active and shows no signs of stopping soon. The group started in the 1700’s the reason for the gangs’ initial formation is like that of many other gangs which is for mutual protection from violence and crime. Gang membership itself can many times be boiled down to a few key criminological theories. These include theories such as Social Disorganization Theory, which refers to people taking up membership …show more content…

The Yakuza as a organization is also complicated, because while they may earn their livings through criminal activity they also are labeled as a chivalrous organization. The Yakuza were developed under principles such as respect and traditional Japanese beliefs like honor and pride. So many times they actually are seen using their power to protect the communities they surround. They exclude much of their violence to offenders to the gang, they never actively involve citizens in their activities. They also possess a very open and decently healthy relationship with the Japanese government. The locations, assets, businesses, and locations of the gang are open to the government. In return they offer their country important services if in need, like previously stated they also create lots of money flow into the countries economy even if the government knows the money isn't exactly clear, they view them as a “necessary evil”. Deterrence is one of the most important principles involved in the field of Criminology and that is one reason why the Yakuza are allowed the freedoms they are. The power they possess over many of the communities around Japan, help deter small offenders by instilling fear that harming the innocent, and the community will incite the rage of the Yakuza. While much of the violence has been kept in check by the government they still give brutal punishments like the cutting of fingers and pulling of teeth to those who, for example, do not pay back loans or rob businesses they hold assets in. The Yakuza while not at the peak of their power they still hold a big influence over the country of Japan and express many criminological

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