Why do people commit criminal behavior?  What is crime? Who is more
likely to commit what type of crime?  Are some of us destined to be
criminals from birth?  Does living in a poor or crime ridden
neighborhood affect criminal behavior? What theories are the most
plausible and how can we turn them into policy that helps to reduce
crime?   This intensive 6 week class covers the development of
criminological theory from its foundation in the classical and
positivist schools of thought through more modern biological,
psychological, and sociological approaches. We'll also examine how
crime is measured and how measurement is important to theories
concerning criminality.  Finally, students will do fieldwork, testing
one of the more popular and current approaches for themselves.  A
third of the grade is based in attendance and active participation in
discussion and projects so student involvement daily in the classroom
is essential! Exams and the field project cover the remaining grade
for the class.



Class meeting:  10:20 - 11:35, D, BH 340

Course will satisfy:  CJUS core requirement
Course will satisfy:  Social/Historical Studies (Social Inquiry
distribution requirement)

Instructor:  Michelle Ross, criminal justice department