CRIM 104 Lecture Notes - Émile Durkheim, Auguste Comte, The Communist Manifesto

• School: Simon Fraser University
• Department: Criminology
• Course: CRIM 104
• Professor: Barry Cartwright

Document Summary

Good theory is logically constructed (logically sound and internally consistent) Good theory can be empirically validated (i. e through measurement or observation) Good theory can unify a number of competing or conflicting theories. Theory may be good, but we may lack the means to measure or observe. Some theories have been measured only once, or from only one perspective (may appear to have been proven, but not through repeated research) Metathoeries = grand theories that offer wide concepts. Unit theories = emphasize a particular problem and make testable assertions about the problem. Macrotheories = are broad, and tend to explain the effects of social structure. Microtheories= are narrow, and tend to explain the process through which individuals or groups become criminal. Bridging theories attempt to address issues of social structure and the process through which individuals become criminal. Norms/expectations not shared, but rather, imposed upon us. Laws and social institutions designed to regulate and integrate social behaviour.