Illustration representing cultural conflict in criminology, highlighting opposing social forces and inequality, with symbolic references to Karl Marx's class struggle theory.

What Is Conflict Theory? Understanding Crime and Power in Society

Introduction To Conflict Theory Conflict Theory is one of the most influential perspectives in the field of criminology. Rooted in sociological thought, particularly the ideas of Karl Marx, Conflict Theory suggests that crime is a product of social and economic inequality. It argues that laws and justice systems are tools used by powerful groups to…

An educational chart comparing primary and secondary deviance, showing key differences such as rule-breaking behavior, societal reaction, and identity change.

The Theory of Primary and Secondary Deviance in Criminology

Introduction Deviance remains one of the most crucial topics in criminology and sociology. It provides insight into why individuals engage in behaviors that society deems unacceptable, how such behaviors develop over time, and how individuals and groups are labeled and treated as a result. One of the most influential contributions to the understanding of deviance…

A horizontal 2D infographic presenting seven major criminological theories — Labeling Theory, Primary & Secondary Deviance, Stigma Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Differential Association, Conflict Theory, and Heat and Crime Theory — with icons and brief summaries of their core concepts and key figures.

Criminological Theories: Labeling, Stigma, Conflict, and More

Introduction to Criminological Theories Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. To understand the nature of crime, criminologists develop theories to explain why individuals engage in criminal acts. These theories encompass a variety of perspectives that focus on factors such as social reactions, psychological processes, environmental influences, and societal structures. In this…

A black-and-white hand-drawn illustration showing an interrogator and a suspect. The diagram highlights three steps of the interrogation method: open-ended questions, psychological pressure, and breaking silence.

The Statistical Method and the Interrogative Method in Criminology

Introduction Criminology is the scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. It aims to analyze the causes, nature, and consequences of criminal acts in society. Within this field, researchers use various tools to uncover patterns, test theories, and interpret criminal phenomena. Two core methodologies dominate criminological research: the statistical method and…

Visual depiction with the text 'Common Ground for Narrow Concepts of Criminology'.

Common Ground for Narrow Concepts of Criminology

Introduction : Common Ground in Criminology Criminology is a complex and multifaceted discipline that seeks to understand the nature, causes, and consequences of crime. Within this broad field, various narrow concepts have emerged, each offering distinct perspectives on criminal behavior, its origins, and its social implications. While these concepts may differ in approach and focus,…

Illustration representing the Socialist School of Criminology and its focus on social justice and class struggle.

Socialist School of Criminology: Theoretical Foundations and Critiques

Introduction to the Socialist School of Criminology The Socialist School of Criminology represents a distinct perspective within the broader field of criminological theories. Rooted in the principles of Marxism, this school seeks to understand crime through the lens of class struggle, economic systems, and societal inequalities. By emphasizing the role of social and economic factors,…

What is the Difference Between Criminology and Criminal Justice?

What is the Difference Between Criminology and Criminal Justice?

Introduction The fields of criminology and criminal justice often overlap, yet they serve distinct purposes and address different aspects of crime and its impact on society. While criminology focuses on understanding the causes and implications of criminal behavior, criminal justice centers on the systems and processes that respond to crime. This article delves into the…

Cesare Lombroso presenting his theory of born criminals

The Formative School: The Classical Formative School and the Modern Formative School

The Formative School represents a pivotal paradigm in criminology, emphasizing the exploration of criminal behavior through biological, psychological, and sociological lenses. Emerging as a response to classical theories, this school of thought bridges scientific rigor with practical applications. By examining the origins and evolution of criminal tendencies, the Formative School has significantly contributed to understanding,…

Criminology and Moral Sense: Insights from Garofalo

The Role of Raffaele Garofalo in Criminology

Criminology, as a field of study, has undergone significant evolution since its inception. Among the pioneering figures who shaped this discipline, Raffaele Garofalo stands out as a central contributor to the Positivist School of Criminology. His innovative concepts, particularly the notion of “natural crime,” have had a lasting impact on the way crime and criminal…

Artistic representation of crime analysis with geographical mapping.

Geographical School of Criminology: Understanding Crime

The Geographical School of Criminology is a pivotal framework within criminological studies that focuses on understanding crime through its spatial distribution and environmental influences. This school of thought provides a unique lens to analyze how geographical and social factors shape criminal behavior, emphasizing the non-random distribution of crime and its association with specific locations. The…