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Interracial homicide: A macrostructural-opportunity perspective

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Sociological Forum

Abstract

Using data for 154 cities, we test a model of the determinants of interracial homicide that is informed by both Blau's macrostructural theory and elements of the general criminal opportunity perspective. Consistent with Blau's theory, in a multivariate analysis the relative frequency of interracial homicide is positively related to racial heterogeneity, population size, and population density, and inversely related to racial residential segregation and racial socioeconomic inequality. We also find that the level of employment is positively related to the rate of interracial homicide. This result is consistent with the hypothesis, derived from routine activities theory, that the dispersion of activities away from primary group locations and toward more racially heterogeneous settings increases the volume of intergroup contacts. Overall, our analyses reveal that a macrostructural-opportunity perspective offers considerable insight into the determinants of intercity variation in the racial patterning of homicide.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Sociology, State University of New York at Albany, 12222, Albany, New York

    Steven F. Messner & Scott J. South

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  1. Steven F. Messner
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  2. Scott J. South
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Messner, S.F., South, S.J. Interracial homicide: A macrostructural-opportunity perspective. Sociol Forum 7, 517–536 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01117559

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