Edwin Sutherland

criminologist

Edwin Sutherland was a prominent American sociologist and criminologist, best known for his introduction of the concept of 'white collar crime' in the late 1930s. His work highlighted the ways in which individuals in positions of power and privilege engage in illegal activities for personal gain, contrasting these offenses with more traditional, street-level crimes. Sutherland's theories significantly influenced the field of criminology, leading to a greater understanding of the complexities of crime in a socio-economic context. His research emphasized the need for a legal framework that addresses the unique nature of crimes committed by elites, which often have far-reaching impacts on society.