Explanation
Economic control refers to how economic systems and policies are used to shape social relations and enforce social order. In criminology, it highlights how punishment systems reflect and sustain economic inequalities. The availability of labor, economic crises, and class interests influence penal policies and practices. By disciplining marginalized groups and managing surplus labor, punishment operates as an economic regulator within capitalist societies.
Theoretical Reference
Rusche & Kirchheimer’s Punishment and Social Structure provides a classic analysis of punishment as an instrument of economic control, linking penal practices to labor market dynamics.