Overview

This book offers a short and accessible introduction to criminology. Written in a clear and direct style, criminological theories are made more accessible for undergraduates, and the workings of the criminal justice system are explained. Students will learn not only how the criminal justice system works, but also how it does not work. Beyond introducing students to the basics, the book provides a persuasive argument that the criminal justice system we have in the United States comes nowhere close to our ideals for justice, doing little good in terms of crime control, while doing great harm to minorities and the poor. Engaging and far-ranging, this text offers a condensed approach to the key themes and debates surrounding crime and justice, and covers definitions and measurements of crime, criminological theories, crime typologies, and contemporary issues in the criminal justice system. It includes chapters on: Criminological Methods and Data Biological, Psychological, and Classical Theories of Crime Sociological Theories of Crime Patterns of Crime The Police The Courts Corrections and the American Prison System Written by an experienced textbook author, this book offers a critical approach to the subjects discussed and draws on topical examples such as Black Lives Matter, the militarization of the police, plea bargaining and the War on Drugs. It is essential reading for Criminology courses within a Sociology Major and will also be of interest to Criminal Justice majors, law students, policymakers, and informed citizens.

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9780367321628

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Reviews

Criminology in Brief sets itself apart from the established criminology textbooks by seeking to serve as a foundation for a criminology course rather than trying to serve as a criminology course itself. Heiner discusses key criminological concepts and theories in a way that provides the reader with a foundation upon which they can engage with up-to-date criminological research in class settings and while reviewing empirical articles. This book is highly recommended for instructors who teach introduction to criminology courses. Michael S. Barton, Associate Professor of Sociology, Louisiana State University Robert Heiner's Criminology in Brief is a unique textbook that bridges the gap between sociology and criminal justice, and is written in a style that is perfect for undergraduates who take courses in either discipline. Heiner's critical approach provides students, practitioners, and indeed informed citizens, with a better understanding of crime and the criminal justice system. Todd M. Krohn, Instructor of Sociology, University of Georgia

Author Information

Robert Heiner received his Ph.D. in Sociology at the University of Virginia. He is on the faculty at Plymouth State University; and he has authored or edited numerous textbooks with well-renowned publishers, including a Social Problems textbook now in its fifth edition with Oxford University Press.

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