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Topics in Criminology, 2008.
This paper discuses four topics in criminology: minimum mandatory sentencing (MMS), a security-minded culture, conditional sentencing and the rational choice theory.
3,585 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 100.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that minimum mandatory sentencing (MMS) does not effectively induce incapacitation nor does it really deter perpetrators. The author points out that routine precautions against crime create a security-minded culture of distance meaning that the criminal as a person is demonized and seen as belonging to a very different human category. The paper suggests that the unknowing public of Canada may strongly support the federal government's decision to eliminate conditional sentencing and expand the range of serious crimes to which MMS minimum mandatory sentencing apply; however, they do not understand that comparable adjustments in the United States have not reduced crime rates. The author stresses that rational choice theory does not address individuals who are not truly capable of rationality and thus can not make choices based on sound, rational decision.
Table of Contents
Minimum Mandatory Sentencing (MMS)
A Security-Minded Culture
Conditional Sentence
The Rational Choice Theory
From the Paper
"The St. Lawrence Mental Health facility in Ontario is typical of a number of institutions now serving mentally ill medium and maximum security offenders. There are not enough facilities of the kind to serve the mainly federal offenders who would benefit from transfers allowing them to have comprehensive psychiatric care, towards partial or full recovery, as part of their federal sentences. It is plain that many Western countries are seeing persons who are mentally ill rather lost in the criminal justice system as opposed to hospital or other remedial systems."
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Classical and Positivist Criminology, 2007.
A comparison of the classical thinking and the positivist perspective of criminology.
955 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses two of the most prominent schools of criminology: classical thinking and the positivist perspective. The paper compares the different precepts upon which each school of thought operates and analyzes each of the theories and their key assumptions. The paper then discusses their attribution of causal factors and each of their approaches to addressing crime.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Classical Criminology
Positivist Criminology
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The school of classical criminology differs significantly from the thinking demonstrated under the positivist approach to crime. Classical criminology has its origins in the concepts of free will, individual decision-making and the benefits of society to the individual. The school addresses the problem of crime using punishment and deterrent actions. On the other hand, positivism rejects the concept of the individual and free will and instead embraces the idea of enduring evolutionary traits that define a basic criminal personality, and which can be assessed using scientific methods. The two perspectives, though very different (and even contradictory) in nature, both provide the basis for a cohesive overall approach to addressing the problem of crime as a wide variety of approaches are incorporated."
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Positivism and Modern Criminology, 2004.
An examination of the rise of a positivist methodology in criminology and the influence it has had.
1,963 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the contribution of a positivist methodology to criminology cannot be underestimated and how the very name criminology did not become common until the 1890?s and the rise of positivism. It looks at how the work of Cesare Lombroso established a new method of conducting criminal inquiry even though the work of Guerry and Quetelet on French crime statistics and social data had already introduced a positivistic approach into the study of crime especially with regard to the social links with criminal behaviour. It also explores how the work of the Italian School of Criminology (scula positiva) with people like Enrico Ferri used the methodology that Cesare Lombroso introduced but applied them to different areas of inquiry. It shows how this multi-factor scientific approach allowed the science of crime to develop and become an internationally recognised academic field and encouraged people all over the world to try and search for causal links between crime and various factors like poverty and education levels.
From the Paper
"The work of Lombroso was new and radical but what is more important to the development of positivism and its subsequent influence on modern criminology were the methods that he employed in his study. The scientific methods he used revolutionised the study of crime, his new model of approach sought to identify, categorise and measure differences between criminals. Lombroso published his findings in 1876 in L?Umo Delinquente (The Delinquent Mind) and his work and methods gave rise to a new international movement. The Italian School of Criminology (scula positiva) emerged and took the methodology of Lombroso and expanded upon them. The work of people such as Enrico Ferri according to David Garland, ?showed a considerable diversity and eclecticism.? The ?French School? focused mainly upon the sociological and environmental determinants of crime and the ?German School? included the study criminalistics and the development of new forensic techniques."
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Classical Criminology, 2004.
An overview of several theories regarding classical criminology.
1,558 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the backdrop for the creation of the classical school of criminology was the movement in Europe traditionally referred to as the Enlightenment. It looks at how, generally, the Italian thinker, Cesare Beccaria, is credited with the creation of classical criminology and how, in creating his ideas, he did not so much generate original concepts as link together and systematize the ideas that were already circulating in the Enlightenment into a cohesive theory of criminology. It also shows how his influences were thinkers such as Locke, Bacon, Rousseau, and Diderot. It looks at how several different schools based on classicism have developed, including the classicist and positivist schools of thought.
From the Paper
"Several different schools based on classicism have developed, including classicism, which reconsiders the limitations of an agent?s free will in cases such as self-defense or mistaken identity; largely it was an attempt to find a compromise of sorts between the classical and positivist perspective. Similarly, the Rational Choice perspective focuses on the decisions made by the criminal in an attempt to understand the ?goal? of any crime. Routine Activities Theory focuses on a situational analysis of crimes, considering when and where crimes most typically occur and how we can use those facts to prevent them. All of these schools are primarily informed by the classical beliefs that crimes are committed for rational reasons related to hedonistic principles."
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Theories of Criminology, 2008.
This paper discusses and explains different theories of criminology.
1,134 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that in the field of criminology, various theories have been advanced to explain why people commit crimes. The writer notes that more manageable and more conventional is the listing of theories provided by Victor Jupp, which posits four theories: biological, social bonding, social structure and psychological bonding. Jupp points out that these four theories reflect the learning of different intellectual disciplines and come to widely different opinions about the individual criminal, but are all directed to the common question - why do people commit crimes? The writer concludes that while each of these theories offers some insight, there is a frustrating difficultly in criminology. The writer maintains that although criminology may be able to explain why certain people have committed certain crimes, it is frustratingly less effective at discerning how one might commit crimes and how to prevent them.
From the Paper
"The biological theory and the social bonding theory both assume that the individual develops into a criminal because of inborn factors. Lombroso and his followers contend that the stigmata mark the atavistic criminal, and these cannot be changed. Eysenck and company contend that, certainly in the adult, the personality is largely unchangeable, and in the case of the criminal, the psychoticisms cannot be removed. By contrast, social structure theories contend that the individual is more of a blank slate, shaped by his surroundings, so that if these surroundings can be manipulated, criminality will not develop."
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Bentham, Utilitarianism, and the Classical Theory of Criminology, 2004.
An examination of the contributions made by Jeremy Bentham towards criminology theories.
1,987 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the criminology theories of Jeremy Bentham. It begins by providing a biographical background of Bentham and explains how his love for law and criminology pushed him to develop new theories. It discusses why these theories were controversial at the time and looks at some critiques of the theories.
From the Paper
"Bentham?s contribution to the classical theory came in the form of an idea he advanced called utilitarianism (Siegel, 2000). The theory of utilitarianism is based around the idea that lawmaking should be done with the goal of providing the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people (Siegel, 2000). Bentham believed that empirical calculations could be derived to judge what laws would provide the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. As for the criminal application of this theory, he believed that individuals weigh the probabilities of present and future pleasures against those of present and future pain. This balancing of outcomes served as the deciding factor of whether or not an individual would commit an illegal act. Accordingly, Bentham believed that if the proposed pain was in excess of the pleasure derived from the crime, then no crime would result. This is utilitarianism in its simplest sense. In order to understand in a deeper sense (one that explains contexts, applications, and criticisms) one has to look deeper into Bentham?s ideas on legal duties, obligations, and powers, and how these contributed to utilitarianism, and finally, how utilitarianism contributed to the classical theory as we understand it today."
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Classical and Neoclassical Criminology, 2005.
Compares classical and neoclassical criminology theories.
1,380 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper compares classical and neoclassical criminology theories and looks at their origins and how they developed. It looks at the current legal system in terms of where it fits into these theories, and shows how they are used in criminology today.
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Deviance Theory and Criminology, 2008.
This paper examines the strengths and weaknesses of deviance theory and its impact on the field of criminology.
1,392 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that although the theory of deviance helps to shed light on some of the reasons people engage in criminal actions, the theory is a social construct and is thus inherently flawed. The paper maintains, that this theory should, therefore, occupy only a minor role in the field of criminology. The paper also asserts that this theory only be employed as a means of interpretation of the criminal mind when there is no possibility that the root cause of deviance may lie within the society and not the individual.
Outline:
Introduction
Strengths
Weaknesses
Deviance and Criminology
From the Paper
"The theory of deviance is not organic. Broadly defined, deviance is behavior that violates the norms of a particular society. Thus, the theory is a creation of society, and a social construct that labels persons within a society as outcasts because they tend to display certain behaviors that society deems reprehensible. Deviance, then, is best understood as an artificial creation, which fits neatly into the realms of academic disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, psychology and social psychology to explain the unexpected actions of individuals. Most of all, the theory helps us to understand the most reprehensible among us: the criminal. "
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A Critique of Marxism in Criminology, 2005.
A look at Marxism in relation to the theory criminology.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the application of Marxism to the study of criminology as an academic discipline. The major points of this theoretical approach are discussed, as will some of the major reasons that Marxism fails to be widely applicable to the field unlike other theoretical approaches. According to this paper, despite Marxism's incredible appeal in other fields: labor studies, history, economics, sociology; incorporating criminology seems to be elusive for Marxists even to this day.
From the Paper
"A large number of criminology theories have developed over the years to account for people who willfully engage in criminal activity, despite the risks and despite the overall harm to the larger social fabric. Some of these theories have been psychological, citing behavioral patterns. Others are sociological and attempt to qualify crime as a function of disparities within society. Some theories even argue a biological perspective, that some of us are merely hardwired to commit crimes. It's, apparently, in our genes. One particular theory that has been less successful in criminology is Marxism. "
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Positivist Criminology, 2005.
This paper discusses the positivist criminology theory and its limitations.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper examines individual and sociological positivism in terms of its nature and claims. The paper claims that it is evident that the most relevant positivist theories, such as Lombroso's and Eysenck's, are fundamentally incompatible with the theories of non-positivists such as Becker. The paper explains that positivism adds to our understanding of what causes crime, but it ignores or overlooks a number of important criminal justice issues such as effective deterrence. The paper discusses how this reveals the limitations of positivism as a means of explaining criminal behavior and formulating effective resolutions to crime in human society. The paper brings positivist criminology theorists who contend that criminal justices systems should be administered in order to rehabilitate criminals so that they will be law abiding citizens when they return to society.
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Criminology Theories, 2007.
This paper discusses criminology theories and looks at how they help prevent crime and reduce criminal behaviors.
1,122 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two criminology theories and holds them against the current social phenomena of adolescent substance abuse. The writer explores the relevant theories. The writer notes that as mankind continues to study the criminal element, it continues to develop theories that can be applied to criminal behavior. The writer then explains that two well known criminal theories are labeling and social bonding. In each of these theories there are markers to help explain some of the behavior patterns when it comes to adolescents and substance abuse. The writer points out that it is important to understand how these theories impact the problem, so that future attempts can be made to proactively prevent substance abuse.
Outline:
Introduction
Labeling Theory
Social Bond Theory
Relating Theory to Social Issue
Influence
From the Paper
"In a recent study regarding the labeling theory, adolescent participants were asked if they had received labels from professionals and asked if their families and friends had labeled them, and if so what the labels were. The adolescent's encounters with juvenile courts, social workers and substance abuse programs were also recorded to determine if the label theory supported the participants' background and labeling.
The study concluded that being labeled with a negative label, can create negative behaviors in adolescence.
In addition, the participants did record a higher level of drug use if they had received negative labeling from professionals and personal interactions."
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Labeling and Criminology, 2004.
An analysis of the implications of labeling theory for the discipline of criminology and for policy-making purposes.
4,382 words (approx. 17.5 pages), 23 sources, MLA, $ 115.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a critical analysis of the implications of labeling theory, both for the discipline of criminology and for policymakers today and in the future. The paper contends that the fundamental assumption of labeling theory is that perceived negative societal reactions will inevitably lead to the development of negative self-conceptions and greater criminal involvement. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.
Outline
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Labeling Theory
Implications for Criminologists
Implications for Policymakers
Conclusion
From the Paper
"An increasingly common phrase being heard in America today is "Don't label me!" This reaction may be largely in response to the persistent and lingering aspects of a dangerous practice that has been proven time and again to be largely ineffective for criminal justice and policy-making purposes, but which does not seem to be going anywhere soon. According to Freilich, Raybeck and Savishinsky (1991), George Herbert Mead and his colleagues at the Chicago School were among the first sociologists to emphasize both social process and the role of individual perception in the construction of social life. "Their influence is reflected in a recent, major treatment of deviance, namely, labeling theory, which is largely the work of Howard Becker (1963), Albert Cohen, (1962), Edwin Lemert (1967) and others. In sum, labeling theory maintains that deviance is a social construct. Freilich et al. note, "The members of society decide what they mean by the term and then label individuals whose behavior is perceived as departing from accepted norms. The labelees, in turn, find themselves marginalized, prevented from engaging in certain forms of social participation, and encouraged to conceive of themselves as deviant" (20)."
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Radical Criminology, 2002.
An overview of the concept of radical criminology.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the basic tenets of radical criminology. After explaining links between criminality and capitalism, as expounded in Marxism, it draws attention to some limitations of the approach.
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Criminology Theory, 2002.
How criminology theories help police work.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 8 sources, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This seven-page undergraduate paper discusses the existence and history of criminology theory and how it can be utilized by police professionals in today's society.
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Criminology and Non-Fiction, 2002.
Compares the characters in "Wise Guy" (Nicholas Pileggi) to criminology.
1,400 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the nonfiction "Wise Guy" by Nicholas Pileggi to a criminology textbook. Comparisons are made between the character types and the social structure found in "Wise Guy" with examples from the textbook.
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