The criminalization of tattooing in Oklahoma: an application of Clegg's circuits of power

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] This research addresses the dynamics involved in the processes of criminalization and decriminalization giving particular attention to issues of power. Through the analysis of primary and secondary historical data, the articulation of the systems of power integrates Clegg (1997) and Turk (1969) to interpret the chronology of the criminalization and subsequent decriminalization of tattooing in the state Oklahoma. The state of Oklahoma was of particular interest not only because it was the last state to decriminalize tattooing but also due to the unique factors leading to the regulation of tattooing. Findings of this research posit that Clegg (1997) is not completely effective in addressing the dynamics of power but can be supplemented by conceptions formulated by Turk (1969).