The Author’s Argument
Gangs have remained a critical part of the American society. The book “Understanding Contemporary Gangs in America” gives a clear analysis of the socio-economic issues associated with these sub-cultural groups. The author believes strongly that many American citizens do not understand the social implications of these gangs. Gang culture is associated with racial inequality and social stratification. According to the book, gender issues are also linked to gang culture in America (Peterson, 2003). These groups also support crime in different schools and prisons. Such gangs also engage in drug trafficking and violence. The author describes how different players can work together in order to deal with this social problem.
Information to Support the Targeted Argument
The author has used powerful concepts to support the above argument. For example, the author explains how such “gangs dominate every aspect of the society” (Peterson, 2003, p. 23). Many schools and prisons have been associated with such groups. The current socio-economic patterns in the United States have been supporting different criminal activities. The book uses “the social designation theory to analyze the nature of these gangs” (Peterson, 2003, p. 54). The text explores how different historical injustices have resulted in social disorganization. The book also highlights the problem of drug trafficking. These American gangs engage in different malpractices and activities thus destabilizing the economy. The text also presents effective policies that can be used prevent crime. For instance, the book encourages different stakeholders such as lawyers, judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers to work together.
Is the Information Convincing?
The information presented in this text is convincing. To begin, Peterson presents a comprehensive analysis of gang culture. The book also describes how such sub-cultural groups have become part of the American society. Peterson also gives a connection between such gangs and violence. Racism is also associated with insecurity and crime. Such gangs are also common in many American prisons and learning institutions (Peterson, 2003). That being the case, social workers and law enforcement officers should be ready to deal with this problem.
Comparison with Other Texts
This book supports the arguments presented in other texts. Many books treat gang culture as a major problem with deep socio-economic roots. The book also explains why “different institutions have become the breeding grounds for such groups” (Peterson, 2003, p. 65). Similar arguments are presented in other books. For instance, the book “Gangs: A Guide to Understanding Street Gangs” explores the implications of these sub-cultural groups.
Flow of the Book
The author uses seven sections in order to make the book readable. Peterson has also used a formal writing approach. The use of different words describes the societal implications of these gangs (Peterson, 2003). Peterson uses powerful evidences to support his arguments and ideas.
Style and Clarity
Peterson has used simple phrases throughout the text. The author has included different evidences in order to support her argument. She explores how drugs and inequalities are associated with gang culture (Peterson, 2003). The seven sections make it easier for the reader to understand the targeted information. The author uses formal words in order to make the text relevant.
Recommendation
Every class can read this book. A student of law will understand the issues associated with these groups. This text is applicable in different classes such as history, political science, social studies, and criminal justice system (Valdez, 2009). Every citizen should read this book in order to understand the nature of American gangs. I will also read more books in order to understand this problem much better.
Reference List
Peterson, R. (2003). Understanding Contemporary Gangs in America: An Interdisciplinary Approach. Upper-Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Valdez, A. (2009). Gangs: A Guide to Understanding Street Gangs. San Clemente, CA: Law Tech Publishing.