SOC328 : Criminological Theory

This course will focus on examining sociological explanations of crime and how these theories relate to empirical evidence and social policy. We will begin by asking the question, “What is crime?” From there, we will look at how crime is measured and what general patterns emerge from previous surveys of criminal behavior. Next, we will dive into the heart of the course: investigation of the various explanations of crime and the implications these theories have for crime control policies and social change. Finally, we will conclude with a discussion about what the future holds for crime and social control in American society.