Criminological Theory: Past to Present: Essential Readings

In this comprehensive anthology, Francis Cullen and Robert Agnew take readers on an excursion from past to present, reviewing classic and contemporary theories of crime. Students are introduced to the foundations of criminology and to the competing theories that will shape thinking about crime in the years ahead.

Building on the success of the second edition, the third edition features nine new selections and adds two new parts: "Conservative Criminology" and "Environmental Criminology." The third edition also begins with a unique "Guide for Readers"--an essay that helps students understand both the structure of criminological theory and how to use the book's readings most effectively.

A brief introduction precedes each individual reading, alerting readers to key points and integrating the selection into the larger theme of the section. These introductions serve as a useful "road map" as students explore the ongoing intellectual developments, diverse views, and continuing debates that make the study of criminological theory an exciting adventure.