Which of the following statements is true regarding the nature of crime?

The statement that crime can be influenced by social and economic factors is accurate because it recognizes the complex interplay between societal conditions and criminal behavior. Various elements such as poverty, education, employment opportunities, cultural norms, and social inequalities can significantly affect crime rates and types of crime that occur in different communities. For example, areas with high unemployment may experience higher rates of theft or property crimes, while densely populated urban environments might see more incidents of violent crime. This perspective highlights the importance of examining crime within its social context rather than viewing it in a vacuum.

In contrast, the other statements do not hold true universally. Crime is not universally defined, as concepts of what constitutes a crime can vary significantly across cultures and legal systems. Likewise, not all crime is punished uniformly; different jurisdictions and legal frameworks can impose varying penalties for the same offense. Lastly, crime rates around the world can fluctuate due to myriad factors, and they are not consistent, as they can be influenced by local law enforcement practices, reporting standards, and societal changes.