SO 420A - Criminology & Penology

Institution:

Merrimack College

Subject:

Description:

This course explores crime, justice, and punishment from a sociological perspective. In recent opinion surveys, crime has been judged to be one of the nation’s most crucial social problems. In the midst of sensationalized news headlines and exaggerated political rhetoric, what can sociology contribute to an understanding of crime? In this course, the causes of crime and the solutions and policies in place to deter or solve crime will be critically examined. We will also examine the social processes whereby crime is defined and detected, and offenders are apprehended and punished. The overall objective of the course is to examine crime and punishment within the context of the society and culture which surrounds it. These topics are connected to inequalities of race, class, and gender, which will be key concerns throughout this course. Coverage of crime and punishment in the popular media is also a central focus of this course. Prerequisite: SO 201A or consentof the instructor. Satisfies the social science distribution requirement. Three hours a week.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.merrimack.edu

Phone Number:

(978) 837-5000

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Semester

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