Section Overview
Section 1.3, “Criminology and Science,” presents criminology as an interdisciplinary field that benefits significantly from the application of scientific methods to the study of crime and its surrounding phenomena. This section begins by defining criminology through the comprehensive lens provided by the American Society of Criminology, emphasizing its focus on the origins, control, prevention, and treatment of crime and delinquency. It highlights the historical development of criminological thought, from ancient philosophies to modern scientific inquiry, underlining the evolution from speculative musings to evidence-based analysis. By examining the role of theory in criminology, the section differentiates between scientific theories and nonscientific speculation, underscoring the importance of empirical evidence and rigorous testing. Additionally, it addresses various methods of acquiring knowledge, including the limitations and applications of tenacity, authority, and intuition in the context of scientific inquiry. Ultimately, this section advocates for a methodical and empirical approach to criminology, advocating for the integration of scientific theories and methods to deepen our understanding of crime and enhance criminal justice policies and practices.
Section Level Student Learning Outcomes
- SLO 1: Identify criminology’s interdisciplinary nature and its reliance on scientific methods.
- SLO 2: Differentiate between scientific theories and nonscientific speculation in criminology.
- SLO 3: Recognize the historical evolution of criminological thought and its significance.
- SLO 4: Understand the role and limitations of various methods of knowing in criminology.
- SLO 5: Appreciate the importance of empirical evidence in developing and testing criminological theories.
Modification History File Created: 02/15/2024 Last Modified: 02/15/2024
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