What is the term for a violation of criminal law for which formal penalties are applied by a governmental authority?

The term that refers to a violation of criminal law for which formal penalties are applied by a governmental authority is "crime." A crime is defined as an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by a governing authority. This legal definition underscores the importance of formal processes, where legal systems categorize certain behaviors and enforce consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or other penalties.

In a sociological context, the concept of crime is crucial because it underscores the relationship between societal norms, laws, and individual behavior. It emphasizes that what one culture may consider a crime, another may not, highlighting the significance of legal frameworks that dictate acceptable behavior within a society.

The other terms listed do not pertain to the legal definition of a crime. Cultural universals refer to elements, patterns, traits, or concepts that are common to all human cultures, such as family systems or religious beliefs. Creationism denotes a belief system regarding the origin of the universe and life that is often contrasted with scientific explanations, like evolution. The correspondence principle relates to the concept that the structure and values of schooling correspond to the social structure and values of the larger society, particularly in terms of social class and education.

Thus, the correct association of crime with legal violations and