An overview is given of the variety of theoretical perspectives on crime and deviance, and their historical and political-economic contexts are highlighted. A critical Marxist perspective is discussed as a perceived advancement over the conceptualizations of earlier approaches. This framework provides the rationale for examining such seemingly diverse topics as crime, sexuality, and mental illness within one general theoretical orientation. 'Working class' crime is analyzed, including street crime, 'social banditry' (crime against the rich, generally supported by the oppressed poor), and collective rebellion. The way the police and prisons are used to control these crimes is considered. Crime committed by organizations as part of their regular operation is discussed. Organizations considered are crime syndicates, corporations, and government agencies. Also, material on women, sexuality, crime, and deviance which has been neglected in conventional texts is treated. A critical analysis of mental illness is integrated with other forms of deviance. Historical material on the development of 'mental illness' as a social construct is considered, as well as how the mentally ill have been treated and controlled by the psychiatric establishment and mental hospitals. The book concludes with an overview of various social democratic and noncapitalist countries in terms of the nature of crime and deviance in these alternative social systems. The book is intended primarily as a text for undergraduate students taking courses in criminology, deviance, criminal justice, and social problems. About 1,000 references, a glossary, and an index are provided. (Author abstract modified)