Criminology is the scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.

It has a rich
history and has evolved over time, as scholars and practitioners have developed new theories and metho
ds to better understand crime and how to prevent it. Here is a brief overview of the history and growth of c
riminology:

Classical criminology: In the 18th century, a group of thinkers known as the classical school developed th
e first formal theory of criminology. They argued that crime was a rational choice made by individuals who
weighed the potential benefits against the risks of punishment. They believed that the best way to deter c
rime was to make the punishment swift, certain, and severe.

Positivist criminology: In the late 19th century, a new approach to criminology emerged that emphasized t
he scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. Positivist criminologists believed that criminal behavior
was determined by factors outside the individual’s control, such as biology, psychology, or social environ
ment. They believed that the best way to prevent crime was to address these underlying factors.

Sociological criminology: In the early 20th century, criminologists began to focus on the social causes of c
rime. They argued that crime was not just an individual problem, but a social problem caused by poverty, i
nequality, and other social factors. They believed that the best way to prevent crime was to address these
underlying social issues.

Contemporary criminology: In the second half of the 20th century, criminology continued to evolve, with n
ew theories and methods emerging. Some of the key developments included the rise of critical criminolog
y, which focused on the ways in which power and inequality shape the criminal justice system, and the gr
owth of victimology, which focused on the experiences of crime victims.