Discover the Fascinating World of Criminology

Step into the intriguing realm of criminology, where the origins of this fascinating discipline can be traced back to the nineteenth century. Initially rooted in statistics and medical science, criminologists initially viewed criminality as a sort of "disease." However, with the growing influence of sociology in the twentieth century, the focus shifted towards exploring a wider range of causes surrounding the offender. As the ultimate explanation for criminal behavior remained elusive, the analysis expanded to include the social environment and the role of law enforcement agencies, giving rise to both the criminology of the lawbreaker and the criminology of the lawmaker.

In the subsequent years, the field continued to evolve, incorporating the perspective of the victim in the 1980s and placing renewed emphasis on researching the causes of crime in the 1990s. This shift also highlighted the importance of criminal policy and the shared responsibility for crime prevention and control among citizens and various institutions. As we entered the twenty-first century, the introduction of the concept of risk justice brought new dimensions to the discipline.

Comprehensive and Engaging Content

Against this backdrop, "Against the Rules IV: An Introduction to Criminology" offers a comprehensive exploration of the field in three distinct parts. In Part I, fundamental questions surrounding criminology are answered, from the definition and measurement of criminality to the core principles of the discipline. Part II delves into ten essential and contemporary theoretical approaches used to explain criminal behavior. Biological, psychological, socio-psychological, and sociological perspectives are examined, shedding light on implicit beliefs about criminal justice, society, and offenders, and discussing the empirical basis of these theories.

Finally, Part III focuses on the vast array of responses to crime prevalent in modern societies. Explore the changing landscape of crime management through risk assessment and profiling, the growth of private security, initiatives towards reconciliation and restoration, as well as structural and individual prevention, treatment, and punishment.

Join us on this enthralling journey as we unravel the complexity of crime and its multifaceted implications across society. Whether you are a student of criminology or simply intrigued by the intricacies of law and order, "Against the Rules IV: An Introduction to Criminology" provides a captivating exploration into this dynamic field.