The adage that the law is not concerned with trifles illustrates a basic dilemma that affects any discussion of the control, prevention, and reduction of crime. This dilemma arises from the fact that both absolute and relative values are involved in the identification of the 'trifles.' Thus, for example, the various options proposed for reducing the overloading of the criminal justice system all reflect specific sets of values. Although a consensus exists regarding what constitutes serious crime, less common agreement exists regarding what is meant by minor crime. Therefore, it is difficult to construct a scale of seriousness that has any permanent validity. Variations over time in the concept of crime have been matched by modification of penalties. Criminological research has traditionally concentrated on the individuals who commit crimes and on the structure of society. Research on public attitudes and public morality would permit the exploration of new avenues of approach to crime control. It is important not to overlook what people feel about crime, what they do about it, who or what changes their attitudes and behavior, and how and to whom people communicate these feelings and actions. Reference notes are provided.