Criminal justice is best viewed as a system and a:

Criminal justice is best viewed as a system and a nonsystem because it encompasses complex interactions between various components, such as law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections, which occasionally function independently and can produce outcomes that are not always aligned. Viewing it as a nonsystem acknowledges the inconsistencies and inefficiencies that can occur when these different parts do not operate cohesively, highlighting the challenges in coordinating responses to crime and justice.

Furthermore, recognizing it as a nonsystem emphasizes the fragmentation that often exists within the criminal justice process, where different jurisdictions may have varying laws, policies, and procedures that lead to a lack of uniformity in how justice is administered. The idea of the criminal justice system being a nonsystem draws attention to the dynamic and sometimes chaotic nature of how justice is dispensed and the impact of individual agency within larger structures.

In contrast, the other choices may overlook the inherent complexities and operational challenges that characterize the criminal justice landscape. For example, viewing it strictly as a business might imply a profit-driven focus, which isn't reflective of its primary purpose for public safety and order. Similarly, referring to it as a conglomerate may suggest a unified organization, which does not capture the often disjointed nature of various agencies and stakeholders involved in the