Includes bibliographical references and index.

This book offers a short and accessible introduction to criminology. Written in a clear and direct style, criminological theories are made more accessible for undergraduates, and the workings of the criminal justice system are explained. Students will learn not only how the criminal justice system works, but also how it does not work. Beyond introducing students to the basics, the book provides a persuasive argument that the criminal justice system we have in the United States comes nowhere close to our ideals for justice, doing little good in terms of crime control, while doing great harm to minorities and the poor. Engaging and far-ranging, this text offers a condensed approach to the key themes and debates surrounding crime and justice, and covers definitions and measurements of crime, criminological theories, crime typologies, and contemporary issues in the criminal justice system. It includes chapters on: Criminological Methods and Data Biological, Psychological, and Classical Theories of Crime Sociological Theories of Crime Patterns of Crime The Police The Courts Corrections and the American Prison System Written by an experienced textbook author, this book offers a critical approach to the subjects discussed and draws on topical examples such as Black Lives Matter, the militarization of the police, plea bargaining and the War on Drugs. It is essential reading for Criminology courses within a Sociology Major and will also be of interest to Criminal Justice majors, law students, policymakers, and informed citizens.

Robert Heiner received his Ph. D. in Sociology at the University of Virginia. He is on the faculty at Plymouth State University; and he has authored or edited numerous textbooks with well-renowned publishers, including a Social Problems textbook now in its fifth edition with Oxford University Press.