This work investigates the systemic bias within the American criminal justice system, arguing that it functions to maintain social inequality rather than merely reducing crime. Jeffrey Reiman, a professor of philosophy, utilizes historical data and legal analysis to demonstrate that the system disproportionately targets the poor while failing to adequately address the harmful actions of the wealthy and powerful. He posits that the 'crime' label is selectively applied to protect the interests of the elite, thereby reinforcing existing class structures. The text provides a critical framework for understanding how ideology shapes the definition and punishment of criminal behavior.

This text is widely regarded as a foundational critique in the field of critical criminology, frequently utilized in academic settings to challenge conventional views on law enforcement. Its rigorous focus on the intersection of class and justice provides a dense, analytical perspective that remains relevant for students and scholars of social policy.