Decriminalizing Criminology: Reflections on the Literal and Tropological Meaning of the Term

Canadian Journal of Criminology, 31(2): 169-178, 1989

8 Pages Posted: 3 Feb 2016

See all articles by Clifford Shearing

Clifford Shearing

University of Cape Town; University of Montreal, School of Criminology; University of New South Wales; University of Toronto

Date Written: February 2, 1989

Abstract

The paper provides a conception of criminology that relocates its theoretical problematic from crime to ordering; at the same time it argues for the retention of the term "criminology." The traditional crime focus of criminology, it argues, has its roots in two reinforcing historical phenomenon -- one theoretical the other empirical. These origins, while initially useful in giving criminology theoretical coherence and a clear empirical focus, now restrict scholarly inquiry. The paper identifies an expanded problematic that includes the traditional crime focus but embraces developments that are moving criminology beyond its traditional boundaries.

Suggested Citation

Shearing, Clifford D, Decriminalizing Criminology: Reflections on the Literal and Tropological Meaning of the Term (February 2, 1989). Canadian Journal of Criminology, 31(2): 169-178, 1989, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2726576 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2726576

Clifford D Shearing (Contact Author)

University of Cape Town ( email )

Private Bag X3
Rondebosch, Western Cape 7701
South Africa

HOME PAGE: http://www.publiclaw.uct.ac.za/pbl/staff/cshearing

University of Montreal, School of Criminology ( email )

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Canada

University of New South Wales ( email )

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Australia

University of Toronto ( email )

Robarts Library
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Canada
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