CRIM 1001 - Explaining Crime and Deviance

This course offers an introduction to the field of criminology by examining the nature of crime as well as exploring the key theories which seek to explain why people commit crime. While the first part of the course briefly introduces the concept of crime, its social construction and its various representations, the second component covers an array of theoretical arguments concerning possible explanations as to why crimes are committed, and how certain ‘deviant’ acts become problematised. Topics covered in this latter section include criminological arguments drawing on Classicism, Biological and Psychological Positivism, Sociological Positivism, Subcultural Theories, Interactionism and Labelling, Social Control Theories, Cultural and Critical Perspectives, and Contemporary Classicism. Ultimately the question is posed whether the insights offered into the varied motivations to commit crime are practically useful in its prevention or reduction.