An Introduction to Criminological Theory

Roger Hopkins Burke author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Publishing:18th Feb '25

£43.99

This title is due to be published on 18th February, and will be despatched as soon as possible.

This paperback is available in another edition too:

An Introduction to Criminological Theory cover

This book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to criminological theory for students taking courses in criminology at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Building on previous editions and the previous companion text, this book presents the latest research and theoretical developments in a socio-political context.

All major theoretical perspectives are considered, including:

  • classical criminology,
  • biological and psychological positivism,
  • labelling theories,
  • feminist criminology,
  • critical criminology and left realism,
  • situation action theories,
  • desistance theories,
  • social control theories,
  • the risk society, postmodern condition, and terrorism.

The new edition has been updated and revised over seven parts to include full chapters on key topics, such as Bourdieau and criminology, narrative criminology, cultural victimology, southern theory and criminology, green and species criminology, critical race theory, convict and abolitionist and convict criminologies, and ultra-realist criminology. These key issues are discussed in the context of debates about the fragmentation of modernity and the postmodern condition: the rise of political populism, risk, surveillance and social control, conspiracy theories, post-truth society and speculation about living in post–COVID-19 society, and the future of neoliberalism.

Supplemented with chapter summaries, critical thinking questions, policy implications, a full glossary of terms and theories, and a timeline of criminological theory, this book will appeal to undergraduate and postgraduate students of criminology, sociology, and politics, and is essential reading for advanced students of criminology looking for a way to engage with contemporary themes and concepts in theory.

“Hopkins Burke’s Introduction to Criminological Theory has long been an indispensable guide for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The book has evolved with the discipline, providing up to date, critical appraisals of the most important and most recent contributions to criminological theory. The latest edition examines an extensive range of perspectives, considering their contributions in relation to developments in the discipline and situating them in wider social, political and historical context. An essential text for any criminology course.”
Will Jackson, Lecturer in Criminology, Programme Leader MA Criminology and Social Policy. Liverpool John Moores University, UK

"Building on an already comprehensive collection, this new edition is strengthened by the inclusion of contemporary debates and theoretical perspectives that will appeal to those teaching and studying criminology, sociology and related disciplines. A must read!"

Kathryn Chadwick, Principal Lecturer, Department of Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

“An Introduction to Criminological Theory
by Rodger Hopkins Burke is a staple on our courses. This is a book I strongly recommend to many of my criminology students, particularly those who have just started studying criminology. The book provides a historical overview and discussion of criminology over the past 250 years and introduces students to various theories and perspectives, presenting these ideas in an accessible and interesting format. The sixth edition continues in this tradition but now incorporates much more, blending the historical with contemporary criminology. It promises to be a valuable text for all students.”

Chloe Hawkins, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader Criminology and Criminal Justice, Portsmouth University, UK

ISBN: 9781032222318

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

1114 pages

6th edition