Lec 1: Intro to Theory

CRMN: 2850: Classical Theories of Crime

Theory

A set of concepts linked together by a series of statements to explain why an event or phenomenon occurs.

Basic Goal of Theory

To explain phenomena

Variable

Something that changes; a good theory identifies how it or problem links to what we want to explain

Predictive Power

Element of a good theory:

A good theory points out relationships between variables and can predict a particular outcome or set of outcomes. Also sheds light on a topic.

Empirical Scrutiny

Element of a good theory:

The capacity of a theory to undergo testing of its explanatory power to determine whether its propositions are supported or not supported by evidence

Parsimony

Element of a good theory:

Straightforwardness and simplicity. A good theory explains a phenomenon simply without being overly long, vague, or filled with complicated language

Policy Implications

Element of a good theory:

The extent to which a theory is useful in the real world for creating social or crime policies

Sensitizing Ability

Element of a good theory:

The ability of a theory to alter our viewpoint, shift our focus, or direct research into new or forgotten directions

How to Classify Theories

1. Level of Analysis

   • Macro-level or Micro-level

2. Paradigmatic Structure

   • Positivist or Social constructionist

3. Range of Explanation

   • General or Restrictive

Macro-level Theory

Focuses on social structure and the "bigger picture," such as neighbourhoods or society as a whole

(Level of Analysis)

Micro-level Theory

Focuses on social processes at the individual level, such as learning mechanisms and social control. (Note: In reality, some theories can contain elements of both)

(Level of Analysis)

Paradigmatic Structure

Create the underlying foundation for theory building

Positivist

Relies on the scientific method and objective conditions to answer concrete questions like, "What are the concrete cause(s) of crime?"

(Paradigms)

Social Constructionist

Focuses on how crime is defined and conceptualized, asking questions like, "Who defines crime and for what purpose?"

(Paradigms)

General Theories

Theories that attempt to explain all or many different types of crime (though in reality, very few actually accomplish this)

(Range of Explanation)

Restricted Theories

Theories that focus on one or a few specific types of crime under limited circumstances. Most modern criminological theories are these theories

(Range of Explanation)

Sociological Imagination

Described by C. Wright Mills as a "quality of mind" that enables individuals to use information and reason to achieve lucid summaries of what is happening in the world and within themselves.

It involves thinking outside the box, questioning conventional wisdom, seeing the big picture, and shifting from one perspective to another to analyze the intersections of biography, history, and society

Three Classic Questions: Structure of Society

What is the structure of this particular society as a whole, what are its essential components, how are they related, and how does it differ from other social orders?

Three Classic Questions: Historical Placement

Where does this society stand in human history, what mechanics drive its change, and how does the period differ from other historical eras?

Three Classic Questions: Varieties of Individuals / Human Nature

What varieties of men and women prevail in this society and period, how are they formed or repressed, and what does their conduct reveal about "human nature"?