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Criminal Justice Policy

NCJ Number
182037
Editor(s)
Jodi Lane, Joan Petersilia
Date Published
1998
Length
671 pages
Annotation
These 28 articles examine major topics related to crime control and criminal justice policies, based on the findings of scientific criminology and international research presented from the perspectives of leading experts from a variety of disciplines, philosophies, and political viewpoints.
Abstract
The articles first appeared in books and journals, mostly published in the 1990’s. They focus primarily on the United States and also include research findings from other countries. The editors’ introduction notes that the world is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of violent crime that has become more random, more brutal, and targeted toward more vulnerable victims than in the past. Political and media discussions of crime have contributed to a citizenry that is understandably concerned and frightened. However, the political nature of crime control debates has prevented the adoption of sound policy proposals based on criminological research. The editors selected the articles to provide a comprehensive resource to assist citizens and policymakers. The book’s five sections present articles that compare crime and victimization in various countries; provide theoretical explanations for the onset, escalation, and termination of criminal behavior; and discuss the social context of crime and various substantive issues related to crime. Additional sections present essays regarding alternative crime control policies, address the approaches that experts recommend for the United States in the future, and critically examine approaches taken in the United States in the past. Tables, figures, notes, name index, and chapter reference lists