Module 1: Crime and Criminology
Section outline
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Crime is a universal social phenomenon, yet its meaning is far from universal. While many people think of crime simply as the violation of codified laws, the term has deeper historical, cultural, and even moral roots. Originating from the Latin word crīmen meaning an intentional act deemed harmful or dangerous, crime has been interpreted differently across time and in societies. For example, early Christian writers equated crime with sin, and modern culture sometimes uses the term more playfully, such as committing a “fashion crime.”
In this module, we explore the complexity of defining crime and the ways societies respond to it. We begin by examining early explanations from the classical period of criminology, then move to debates between legalistic and social constructionist approaches. We also consider how criminological theories can be grouped into two perspectives: consensus perspectives, where laws reflect shared societal values, and conflict perspectives, where laws serve the interests of some groups over others. Through these lenses, students will learn how definitions of crime are shaped by history, culture, and power dynamics, and why these definitions matter in criminological study.
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
- Obj. 1 Explain the historical origins and evolution of criminology as a discipline. (C.O. #1)
- Obj. 2. Analyze crime from both legalistic and social constructionist perspectives. (C.O. #1)
- Obj. 3. Compare and contrast consensus and conflict perspectives on the creation of laws. (C.O. #1, 2)
- Obj. 4. Analyze how cultural and historical contexts influence what is considered a crime. (C.O. #1, 5)
- Obj. 5. Critically evaluate the limitations of defining crime solely through legalistic frameworks. (C.O. #1)
To achieve these objectives: [Edit these items to match your resources and activities.]
- Read the Module 1 Introduction
- Read Chapter #1 in the Criminology textbook.
- Complete the module 1 quiz, discussion and reflection assignment.
Note the check boxes to the right that help you track your progress: some are automatic, and some are manual. [Delete in subsequent modules.]
Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities
You will find the following resources and activities in this module at the Pressbooks website. Click on the links below to access or complete each item.
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