Criminology Today An Integrative Introduction

9780131777118

0131777114

Relevant, interesting, and eye-catching in its four-color layout, this probing introduction to contemporary criminology builds upon the dichotomy between the social problems perspective and the social responsibility perspective in crime - creating a useful framework that will help readers better understand central issues in the field, make informed decisions, and draw their own conclusions about American public policy in the crime-control area. Debates the primary issue of whether crime should be addressed as a matter of individual responsibility and accountability, or treated as a symptom of a dysfunctional society. Addresses the latest social issues and discusses innovative criminological perspectives within a well-grounded and traditional theoretical framework. Emphasizes the wide and interdisciplinary variety of academic perspectives which contribute to a thorough and well-informed understanding of the crime problem. Considers Jack Kevorkian and the issue of whether the "assisted death" should continue to be criminalized; the insanity defense and John E. du Pont; analyses of the Daubert standard and DNA testing, the FBI's new National Computer Crime Squad (NCCS), the Reno v. ACLU 1997 case on internet indecency, and much more. Includes an award-winning web site and numerous other supplementary resources.