Course Description:
In the 21st century it is becoming extremely less likely to find
people who have not in one way or another been affected by crime.  As
a result, questions about the definition, causes,
perpetrators/victims, and solutions to crime are continually being
asked by researchers and concerned citizens.  The goal of this course
will be to explore some plausible answers to the main questions about
the nature or crime.  We will begin with the discussion about how
crime is conceptualized and operationalized in our society; examining
such correlates as race, age, and gender.  This discussion will also
include an analysis of recent crime trends.  We will then look at the
positivist and classical perspectives from which much of Criminal
Justice theory has evolved.  Throughout the remainder of the course
we will continue to examine other perspectives such as: sociological
(e.g. strain theory, differential association theory),
cultural/subcultural and developmental (e.g. life-course theories).

Text:

Evaluation:
Attendance		40 points
Class Participation	60 points
Mid-session exam	25 points
Final exam		35 points
Class Presentation	40 points
			------------
Total			200 points

Class meeting:  11:30 - 12:20, D, BH 005

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

Instructor:  Shani Gray, criminal justice department