Sociology: Crime

Analysis of the nature and types of behavior that violates law, the mechanisms for defining such behaviors as criminal, and their causes and consequences. Prerequisite: Three hours of Sociology.

Pre-reqs 3 hours of Sociology; minimum Soph standing PACE students by permission and override.

This course offers students an introduction to the field of crime and criminology broadly defined. The course builds on a sociological approach to the field in developing a “criminological imagination” and critical approach to the topic. It is divided into three main sections: a) early and foundational texts on sociological approaches to conceptualizing and researching crime; b) critical approaches to understanding the intersection of social stratification, inequalities, and understandings of crime; c) select topics in contemporary criminology.

Learning Objectives for this course include: - Review a wide range of sociological approaches to understanding and analyzing the field of crime - Reflect on main concepts and contemporary debates for further studies in the field - Develop critical insights on the relationships of structures, institutions, and inequalities and crime - Develop critical analytical skills through class readings, discussions, and assignments Lecture format with in-class and online exercises. Expectations include course readings, class participation, and required assignments. All course readings and materials will be available on the course website.

Class participation and attendance; in-class and online exercises; online forum; exams