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
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.
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