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Critical Criminology, Social Justice, and an Alternative View of Incarceration

NCJ Number
174215
Journal
Critical Criminology Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: Autumn 1996 Pages: 43-58
Author(s)
M Welch
Date Published
1996
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Critical criminology is explained, with emphasis on its main assertions, theoretical assumptions, and implications for social reform and criminal justice.
Abstract
The discussion notes that critical criminal criminology is a form of radicalism and has its origin in the traditional social thought of Karl Marx. Since the 1960s, critical criminology has been characterized by diverse and sometimes competing points of views. Contemporary critical criminology is less a theory than a theoretical perspective based on social critique. It considers social problems and economic issues that are either ignored or inadequately addressed by traditional criminologist. Critical criminology provides a useful theoretical backdrop for the analysis of incarceration, particularly with respect to its emergence as a form of local industry. The analysis also considers other developments pertinent to the political economy, especially as they pertain to the shaping of patterns of unemployment and imprisonment. 59 references (Author abstract modified)

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