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.

Copyright

Copyright belongs to SAGE. Information regarding the dissemination and usage of journal articles can be accessed through the following links.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS