Criminology · April 19, 2026
In 20th century, my theorists denied the increase in crime. Despite of it many circles also accepted this rise and began efforts to explain it. These efforts can be categorized as follows:
Thus, criminology will be analyzed from these four perspectives.
All four of these aspects of criminology explain crime through the integration of interpretations that were prevalent up to 1960. For example, left-wing interpretations emerged from labeling theory, while new administrative criminology developed from theories of social control. Modern positivism is the source of right-wing realism, whereas left-wing realism originates from subcultural theories.
However, there are also some common features among these four aspects of criminology:
For their comparison and clearer classification, they will be examined from the following angles:
Left-wing idealism in criminology explains crime as a result of social inequality, class conflict, and the influence of powerful institutions rather than individual behavior. It argues that the state, media, and criminal justice system shape people’s thinking and maintain existing inequalities. This approach views crime as exaggerated to hide deeper issues like poverty and exploitation. Overall, it emphasizes that social conditions, not just individuals, are the main cause of crime
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Administrative or New Bureaucratic Criminology focuses on controlling crime rather than understanding its causes. It emphasizes practical measures like prevention and cost-effective policies instead of deep theoretical analysis. This approach highlights the role of social control and believes police have a limited impact on overall crime rates. However, it is criticized because it ignores root causes and often only shifts crime from one place to another.
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Right-wing realist criminology, led by James Q. Wilson, focuses on controlling crime through practical measures rather than ideal solutions. It emphasizes maintaining social order, strong informal social control, and early socialization instead of relying only on punishment. The approach highlights that crime can be managed by targeting habitual offenders and increasing visible policing. Overall, it prioritizes realistic, cost-effective strategies to reduce crime rather than eliminating its root causes
To read more about Right-Wing Realist Criminology please click here.
Left-wing realist criminology critiques traditional crime theories as incomplete and emphasizes understanding crime through all its elements—offender, victim, act, and social reaction. It views crime as a real and persistent social problem that must be addressed through practical and comprehensive analysis. The approach highlights the importance of social control, especially the relationship between police and the public, in managing crime. Overall, it promotes realistic, integrated strategies rather than idealistic or one-sided explanations, while also acknowledging similarities with thinkers like James Q. Wilson.
To read more about left-Wing Realist Criminology please click here.