The readings in The Nature and Theory of Crime represent the eighteen most influential theories and perspectives in criminology. Each reading, while accessible to the student-reader, has been chosen to represent the complexity of theoretical issues in the field. Students will explore the classical, biological, and control perspectives, the influence of neighborhoods and communities on crime, labeling theories, feminist criminology, and more.

The text teaches readers to understand both the concepts described within numerous theories and the criteria used to evaluate criminological theory. Readers will also learn how theoretical concepts are developed and how theoretical hypotheses are tested. They will become familiar with the empirical support related to major theories and the policy and program implications of each theory. Lastly, they will come to see how the study of criminological theory is related to real-world criminal justice practice.

Each reading is framed by an original introduction to provide context and discussion questions to support retention, critical thinking, and classroom engagement. The Nature and Theory of Crime is designed for upper-division undergraduate courses in criminology, criminal justice, and sociology.