How does the law define crime, and how does its viewpoint compare with that of the social sciences? Law and Crime guides readers through the complex legal, philosophical, and criminological debates around crime and criminal responsibility. It uses a thematic approach to comprehensively explore the relationship between criminal conduct, criminal justice, and the law.
The book introduces key topics in law for criminologists and other social scientists, including:
Historical overview of the development of criminal law institutionsCriminalizationFault and criminal responsibilityCorporate crime and crimes of the powerfulThe production of criminal guiltThe nature of judicial punishmentHow criminal law is applied in cases of genocide, mass violence, torture and other violations of human rightsAimed at students with no prior knowledge of law, the book includes many useful features to enhance understanding, from chapter overviews and key terms to study questions and suggestions for further reading. It is essential reading for students and academics in criminology, criminal justice, and law.