A reflection based on the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency

The recent episode involving MC Poze do Rodo, who was detained and later released for glorifying drug trafficking, brings to light a crucial debate about the social and cultural challenges in contemporary Brazil. More than an isolated case, it symbolizes a crisis identified by jurist and criminologist Dr. José Maria da Silva Filho, internationally known as Dr. Zema, in his two decades of research, expressed in his work “Moral, Shame, and Fear: A Treatise on the Anatomy of Contemporary Criminality.” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=rm4DvK2OBjU&t=3631s)

Dr. Zema presents the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency, which argues that criminality expands when three fundamental pillars of society, morality, shame, and fear, collapse. In today’s Brazil, this theory finds practical application, evidenced by the relativization of moral values, the ridicule of social shame, and the diminishing fear of legal consequences, as seen in the funk genre and its lyrics that exalt crime.

In the specific case of MC Poze, Rio de Janeiro authorities acted to restore the so-called “barrier of shame,” combating the normalization and glamorization of drug trafficking, elements that the artist, knowingly or not, represents in his art. The brief detention was a symbolic milestone reflecting the State’s effort to rebuild this social barrier, without disregarding freedom of expression, a constitutional right, which has clear limits when it comes to the glorification of crime.

The cultural impact of this dynamic is profound. As data from the Brazilian Public Security Forum and the Institute for Applied Economic Research (IPEA) show, exposure to content that glorifies crime is correlated with a significant increase in the risk of vulnerable youth engaging in illicit activities. Music, as an artistic and cultural expression, can be both a mirror of these realities and a vector for either positive or negative transformation.

Dr. Zema emphasizes that this discussion is not about censorship but about social responsibility. Combating the glorification of drug trafficking must be part of a broader cultural reconstruction policy, restoring shame as a tool of civility that restrains delinquency not only through fear of punishment but through the fear of moral judgment by the community.

Thus, the MC Poze case is not merely a legal episode but a warning to Brazilian society, and the world, about the risks of a social model where crime ceases to be dishonored and instead becomes a trend or role model for thousands of young people. For Dr. Zema, the solution lies in strengthening the walls of morality, shame, and fear, pillars that uphold healthy and safe social coexistence.

This analysis, grounded in real data and the theory developed by Dr. Zema, reaffirms his position as an international reference in criminology and social justice, offering a critical and constructive perspective on a topic that transcends borders and demands global attention.

Understanding the MC Poze do Rodo Case and Brazilian Media Coverage

MC Poze do Rodo is a well-known Brazilian funk artist who gained widespread attention after his arrest in Rio de Janeiro for alleged involvement in crime and incitement. The media reported that his arrest followed concerns about his music and performances, which some authorities claimed promoted criminal activity. (https://veja.abril.com.br/brasil/caso-mc-poze-do-rodo-um-palco-para-zombar-da-justica/)

Following his arrest, MC Poze do Rodo released a powerful music video titled "Desabafo 2," which includes scenes from his detention and release. The video quickly went viral, reflecting strong public interest and debate about the role of funk music in Brazilian society.

Brazilian media coverage has highlighted the tension between artistic freedom and social responsibility, discussing whether MC Poze’s work glamorizes crime or simply expresses the realities of marginalized communities. The case sparked nationwide conversations about cultural expression, legality, and the impact. (https://oglobo.globo.com/rio/noticia/2025/06/05/castro-defende-policia-civil-apos-prisao-de-mc-poze-responsabilidade-foi-da-justica.ghtml)

Dr. José Maria da Silva Filho (Dr. Zema)

Jurist | Criminal Lawyer | Criminologist

Author of “Morality, Shame and Fear – A Treatise on the Anatomy of Contemporary Criminality”

Creator of the Tripartite Theory of Delinquency

International Speaker on Criminal Law and Criminology Brazil

Book on Amazon: Morality, Shame and Fear – Tripartite Theory of Delinquency - (https://www.amazon.com.br/Moral-vergonha-medo-triplice-delinqu%C3%AAncia-ebook/dp/B0F2SRD5X1)

Instagram: @dr.zemaoficial - (https://www.instagram.com/dr.zemaoficial/)

Mc Poze Do Rodo Press Release