The authors are convinced that the formulation of a satisfactory explanation of cross-national variations in crime levels requires the systematic application of sociological knowledge and principles. The general advantage of the sociological perspective is that it considers the fundamental features of any organized social system (beliefs, values, goals, culture, and social structure). The authors believe that distinctive crime patterns and levels are produced by the cultural and structural organization of American society, a society that emphasizes monetary success. The strong pressure to succeed monetarily directly contributes to crime by encouraging people to employ illegal means to achieve culturally approved goals. The central premise of the book is that high levels of serious crime result from the normal functioning of the American social system. The nature of the crime problem in the United States is discussed, with particular attention paid to dominant sociological perspectives in contemporary criminology and responses to crime. The authors conclude that effective crime control will require fundamental social reorganization. References and notes