NCJ Number
126907
Journal
Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: (November 1990) Pages: 325-347
Date Published
1990
Length
19 pages
Annotation
Despite 20 years of extensive research, criminology has not made scientific progress in the sense of falsifying some theories and accumulating verified knowledge in the context of other theories.
Abstract
The problem lies in theory. This article presents a new conception of theorizing as a cumulative, iterative, developmental enterprise directed toward falsification, rather than as an "all or nothing" enterprise directed toward explanation. Scientific progress requires that theorizing, like researching, be nurtured in graduate education; publications; grants; and faculty hiring, tenure, and promotion. 10 notes and 72 references (Author abstract)