Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What is referred to as an offense committed against the public good or society?

1. Crime

2. Misconduct

3. Violation

4. Infraction

The correct answer is: Crime

The term that refers to an offense committed against the public good or society is "crime." Crimes are acts that violate the laws established by a governing authority, and they can be classified into various categories, such as felonies and misdemeanors, depending on their severity. The concept of crime encompasses a variety of unlawful activities that pose a threat, harm, or risk to individuals, communities, and the overall well-being of society. In contrast, while misconduct, violations, and infractions may all be related to wrongful actions, they do not carry the same weight or implications in a legal context as crimes. Misconduct typically refers to inappropriate behavior within a professional context rather than a violation of public laws. Violations often pertain to specific breaches, such as regulatory offenses, and infractions are generally considered minor violations. These latter terms usually imply lesser levels of severity compared to what is classified as a crime, which has broader societal implications.