Macquarie University

Crime and Society - SOC226

This unit offers students an opportunity to examine social relationships that underpin definitions of crime, criminal behaviour and policy of crime; and give insight into the burgeoning discipline of criminology within the social sciences. It provides opportunities to examine conventional wisdoms about crime and develop frameworks for understanding crime and policy responses. Particular attention is paid to the definition of crime and criminal justice; the form and function of law; the measurement and regulation of crime; the purpose and aims of criminal justice; as well as thematic study of identity and the experience of criminal justice by different groups. Issues covered include: questions of how crime is defined and measured; criminal responsibility and victimisation; the form and function of law in democratic society; gender based violence; hate crimes; crimes of the powerful; as well as an introduction into debates surrounding terrorism and security. Students are encouraged to re-examine the socially constructed nature of crime and question the purpose of law and the role it plays in maintaining, or disrupting, established notions of fairness and equity within the criminal justice system.

Timetable Information

For unit timetable information please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website