NCJ Number
82193
Date Published
1980
Length
13 pages
Annotation
The contradictions in the social science approach to criminology are interpreted in relation to epistemology, methodolgy, and policy.
Abstract
Social science has been dominated by two separate models describing the nature of human relations: the consensual model, which views society as a whole comprising elements which must be constantly readjusted in a process of restoring homeostasis; and the conflictual model, which regards society as being in a constant state of conflict. The two models contrast two different views of human nature, i.e., individuals facing life unequally equipped by environment and biology to meet the task, and individuals equally endowed but forced to establish their positions in struggles and conflicts. Questions of method have been decidedly affected by these epistemological approaches. The consensual approach lends itself to quantitative methods of positivist inspiration, while the conflictual model prefers qualitative methodology. Political science approaches also reflect the influence of the two basic models. The great interest in the study of power and its allocation is closely associated with the conflictual perspective of Marxist doctrine. The contribution of political science is especially important in analyzing systems of the administration of justice and their bureaucracies. The bureaucracy, which is viewed differently according to the two models, filters the perception and treatment of crime. In terms of sociopolitical approach, most of the sociological theories developed in the 20th century fall into these categories; ecological theories, structural theories, and theories relating to organization and social regulation follow the consensual model, while the Marxists, the interactionists, and the ethnologists belong to the conflictual school. A 7-item bibliography is supplied.