This course introduces students to social scientific theory explaining crime and criminal behavior, with an emphasis on sociologicaly theory. This is an introductory level class focusing on the basic principles of criminology from a sociological perspective. Course topics include basic concepts, different methods of measuring crime, diverse theories of criminology, and a focus on the social origins of crime and criminal behavior. Criminology is a very complex and far-reaching discipline. It has captured the attention of political scientists, biologists, anthropologists, psychologists, and sociologists. Legislators, politicians, mass media, law enforcement, the courts and the corrections system all have a profound impact on the nature of crime. Indeed, crime is an integral part of the fabric of American life. Strongly recommended background: a 100-level sociology course. (now CJ 211)