Paradigm Shift or Normal Science? The Future of (Biosocial) Criminology
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-2017
Publication Title
Theoretical Criminology
DOI
10.1177/1362480617707949
ISSN
1461-7439
Abstract
For much of the history of criminology, tension has existed between sociologically oriented and biologically oriented perspectives. In recent years, a new, more nuanced approach has emerged which attempts to take both perspectives seriously and integrate them into a biosocial criminology. Yet, it remains, in large part, a fringe field of study. We argue that this is due, primarily, to critical as well as supportive scholars’ views that the ‘biosocial’ perspective represents a paradigm shift in the field of criminology. In this article, drawing on our work with the late Nicole Rafter, we present a case that rather than a paradigm shift, this biosocial turn simply represents a maturing field. In doing so, we describe the ways in which biosocial criminology examines crime and antisocial behavior as a biological and social phenomenon. At the same time, we also point out some cautions with respect to this body of work. We conclude with a vision of the future of (biosocial) criminology.
Recommended Citation
Rocque, Michael, Chad Posick.
2017.
"Paradigm Shift or Normal Science? The Future of (Biosocial) Criminology."
Theoretical Criminology, 21 (3): 288-303 Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
doi: 10.1177/1362480617707949
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/crimjust-criminology-facpubs/140
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