Criminology in a Period of Theoretical Ferment

Criminology is in a period of much theoretical ferment. Older theories have been revitalized, and newer theories have been set forth.

The very richness of our thinking about crime, however, leads to questions about the relative merits of these competing paradigms.

Accordingly, in this volume advocates of prominent theories are asked to "take stock" of their perspectives. Their challenge is to assess the empirical status of their theory and to map out future directions for theoretical development.