Question

I have an essay to write. The topic is What are the chief causes of shoplifting? Are these topics strong thesis statements?

1 People shoplift for immoral reasons.
2 The influence of the social society contributes to shoplifting.

Answer 1

I think that #2 is far superior.

You can support that thesis; the influence of peer values, the economic crisis, etc. will be great.

Answer 2

I like the second one better.

Either in your thesis statement or in your support, you should clarify "social society" as it applies to shoplifting.

A better wording might be -- "The influence of our affluent society contributes to shoplifting."