Introduction to Criminology

The unit introduces students to an array of explanations for crime that form the basis of criminological theory, placing these in their historical and political context. The unit explores: the changing nature of what we understand as crime; traditional and mainstream explanations for why people commit crime; the emergence of academic challenges to mainstream explanations of criminality; victims and victimology; inequality and social difference; and crime and the media. In addition, the unit explores the way in which information and statistics on crime are collected. Students will be encouraged to understand the connection between criminological approaches and practical responses to crime.