Research on crime and criminal careers has contributed to the knowledge base on criminology, and crime prediction methods have been refined. In particular, crime prediction has dominated criminological research between 1975 and 1990. Research findings have been influenced by political factors, however, in that criminologists provide advice to government policymakers and legislators on various facets of the criminal justice system. Further, criminological research is used to support the current inclination toward "get tough" approaches to crime. Theoretical, practical, and scientific problems associated with the punish and control approach are examined, as well as the link between politics and science. 96 references and 7 notes