Criminology as a Moral Science

This book proposes an explicit recognition of criminology as a moral science, which requires input from criminologists and philosophers and a dialogue between them. It provides philosophically-informed accounts of morality in practice in several criminological contexts, such as whistleblowing practices, the dilemmas of mothers, and how persistent offenders begin to try to 'turn their lives around.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book presents a groundbreaking proposal that recognizes criminology as a moral science, delving into the intricate interplay of values and reasoning in human behavior. It offers a philosophically rich understanding of the role of values in shaping individuals' motivations and decision-making processes, while simultaneously providing a robust social-scientific account of crime and its societal implications. To achieve this, the book calls for collaboration between criminologists and philosophers, fostering a thoughtful and respectful exchange of ideas.

The book delves into various aspects of criminology as a moral science, including the concept of the "fact-value distinction." It explores the challenges and complexities surrounding the use of empirical evidence in criminal justice and policy-making, while also examining the ethical implications of different approaches to crime control. Additionally, the book offers philosophically informed accounts of morality in practice within various criminological contexts. These include discussions of whistleblowing practices within a police service, the dilemmas faced by mothers who are concerned about the impact of their partner's imprisonment on their children, and the efforts of persistent offenders to turn their lives around and desist from crime.

The issues raised in this book are of paramount importance in the field of criminology today. The development of "evidence-based practice" requires a stable bridge to be built between research evidence and policy recommendations. This book provides valuable insights into the ethical considerations and philosophical foundations that can guide this process, ensuring that evidence-based practices are informed by moral principles and values.

In conclusion, this book offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of criminology as a moral science. By recognizing the role of values in human behavior and fostering dialogue between criminologists and philosophers, it contributes to our understanding of crime, justice, and the broader social context in which these issues arise. It is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike, as it promotes a more ethical and informed approach to addressing crime and its consequences.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509965328