CJU-333 Theories of Crime
The question Why is there crime? lies at the heart of this course. This class will address what we mean by crime, who gets to define what crime is, how crime can be explained and how it can be reduced. Students will learn about many different theories of why there is crime in society, including sociobiological, psychological, and sociological theories, and how these theories form the basis of contemporary criminal justice policy. By the end of the course, students will have a deep understanding of where these theories came from, what their strengths and weaknesses are, whether they are supported by research findings, and what implications these theories have for prevention, intervention, and community safety.
Offered
Fall, Spring