Meaning: This quote by Martin Luther King, Jr., highlights the systemic nature of crime and the role of societal injustices in shaping criminal behavior. King's assertion that the crimes committed by African Americans are "derivative crimes" points to the underlying societal conditions and historical injustices that contribute to the perpetuation of criminal behavior within this community.

The phrase "It is incontestable and deplorable that Negroes have committed crimes" acknowledges the reality of criminal activity within the African American community. King does not seek to deny or excuse these actions, but rather to contextualize them within a broader framework of societal inequality and historical oppression. By using the term "derivative crimes," King suggests that the criminal behavior of African Americans is a direct result of the injustices and inequalities perpetuated by the white-dominated society.

This notion of "derivative crimes" aligns with King's broader philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. Throughout his advocacy for civil rights, King consistently emphasized the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of addressing not only the symptoms of injustice but also their underlying causes. In this context, the quote can be seen as a call to recognize the ways in which systemic racism and social inequality contribute to the cycle of crime and poverty within African American communities.

The reference to "the greater crimes of the white society" serves to highlight the historical and ongoing injustices perpetrated by the dominant white society. King's use of the term "greater crimes" suggests that the systemic oppression and discrimination experienced by African Americans are fundamental injustices that have far-reaching consequences. These injustices create an environment in which criminal behavior becomes a means of survival or resistance for individuals who are marginalized and disenfranchised by the prevailing societal structures.

King's perspective on the root causes of crime within the African American community aligns with broader sociological and criminological understandings of the relationship between social inequality and criminal behavior. Scholars have long recognized the impact of poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to opportunities on the prevalence of crime within marginalized communities. King's quote can be understood as a poignant articulation of this systemic perspective, emphasizing the need to address the structural inequalities that perpetuate criminal behavior rather than simply focusing on punitive measures against individual offenders.

In contemporary society, King's insights remain relevant as discussions of criminal justice reform, racial inequality, and social justice continue to be central issues. The quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of King's analysis of societal injustices and their impact on crime. It challenges us to consider the broader social and historical context in which criminal behavior occurs and to confront the systemic inequalities that contribute to the perpetuation of crime within marginalized communities.

In conclusion, Martin Luther King, Jr.'s quote about "derivative crimes" among African Americans provides a thought-provoking perspective on the systemic nature of criminal behavior and the role of societal injustices in shaping it. By contextualizing these crimes within the broader framework of historical and ongoing inequality, King challenges us to recognize the interconnectedness of societal injustices and their impact on criminal behavior. His words continue to resonate today, serving as a call to address the root causes of crime and to strive for a more just and equitable society.