Introduction to theories of crime

What is a theory?

A series of interrelated propositions that attempt to describe, explain, predict and ultimately to control some class of events. Must be inherently logical and can be tested by how well it describes and predicts reality.

Ideal components of a good theory

Plausibility

Evidence

Falsifiability/testable

Predicability

Considerations/Issues to keep in mind as we discuss the theories

Background

Core propositions

Agency/responsibility

Policy implications

Critique

Theories of Crime

I Individual-level theories

Rational Choice

Biological/psychological (trait)

II Micro-level theories

Social Structure: strain; social disorganization; cultural deviance

Social Process: social learning; social control; labeling

III Macro-level theories

Marxist /Conflict

Research Designs - Ways we test these theories

Survey Research

Longitudinal/Cohort Research

Aggregate Data Research

Experimental Research

Observational and Interview Research

Association versus Causation: Keep in mind three factors

1. Two factors must be related.

2. Causal factor must precede outcome in time.

3. No spurious or confounding factor.

History of Criminological Thought

Religious explanations

Age of reason

Classical School (Beccaria) - people are rational

Positivist School (Comte)

Crime due to factors external to individual

Emphasis on scientific methods