Terms
Criminology
Criminology is the study of criminal behavior and crime. A sub field of sociology, criminology includes such focuses as crime statistics, the psychology of crime and criminals, forensic science, criminal investigation methods, and law enforcement. By approaching the study of criminology from a variety of angles, experts are able to gain a more comprehensive understanding about crime, its sources, and its consequences. The understandings gained through advances in criminology influence law enforcement and criminal justice systems in numerous ways.
Criminology can edify society's understanding of the myriad of factors which lead to criminal activity and those that can prevent it. Criminology influences legal perspectives, criminal deterrent and punishment methods, and policy decisions. Through criminology, experts can measure the rate of crime, the effectiveness of current policy, and what changes or improvements might be beneficial to society. Like any area of academic endeavor, numerous criminology theories have been developed in an attempt to explain the root of deviant human behavior in order to better understand criminals and criminal behavior.
Criminology's demonic theory is arguably one of the oldest perspectives on criminal behavior and deviance. The demonic theory provides religious explanations for criminal behavior. All major religions have developed explanations about human nature, deviance, evil, and suffering. Religion's notable responses to crime include karma, divine providence, and dualism. Demonic criminology theory has had great historical significance in terms of societal beliefs and criminal justice policies.
The classical school of criminology believes that crime is primarily a product of free will and places emphasis on punishment that is certain, swift, and proportional. This criminology theory rests on the principle that the benefits of crime should never outweigh the potential pain of punishment. Classical and neo-classical criminology theorists are more apt to support measures like determinate sentencing (mandatory minimums, habitual offender statutes, etc.); full sentences served; the death penalty; and "good faith" exceptions for due process violations made by law enforcement.
Other criminology theories include the positivist theory, biological theory, ecological theory, conflict theory, functionalist theory, and more. Some criminology fields focus more on explaining the causes of criminal behavior. Some causes that are given include biology, social forces, economic resources, psychological development, personal choice, and more. Other theories focus on the implications of crime and crime control policies.
Criminology can be thought of as the intellectual pool from which individuals and groups develop their perspectives on crime. This perspective will inevitably shape the creation of laws, policies, and other facets of the criminal justice and law enforcement systems. If you would like to learn more about criminology and how it might influence your case, please contact us to speak with a qualified defense attorney who can determine and protect your legal interests.
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