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Criminology can be considered as an applied science since we are using the basic sciences and transform it into practical applications. Let us discuss crimilogy as science by understanding scyentific approach and how such approach is used in criminology.
Science is defined as a ”means of gaining information about something through a rational process which involves reason and experimentation.” There are many different scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, and sociology. Science is an approach to the problems of human knowledge based on the attempt to develop general principles about phenomena, derived from empirical observations. The generalizations are so stated that they can be tested by any competent person Further, the generalizations of a science do not reflect individual experiences, but rather the consensus of the scientific community. Science is based on the assumption that the biases and values of the observer can be relatively controlled so that a reasonable degree of objectivity is possible. Scientific observation has certain characteristics.
Characteristics of Science:
- Scientific observation is based upon verifiable evidence, i.e., factual observations which other observers can check for accuracy.
- Scientific observation is accurate, i.e., facts are exactly described as they are without any exaggeration or underestimation.
- Scientific observation is precise, i.e., the observer precisely refers to the measurement or the degree.
- Scientific observation is systematic, i.e., observations are not casual but are collected in an organized and systematic way.
- Scientific observation is recorded: Human memory being notoriously fallible, unrecorded facts may be difficult to recall. Trustworthy statements are, therefore, made only on the basis of recorded data.
- Scientific observation is objective, i.e., observation is unaffected by the observer’s own beliefs, values, attitudes, and feelings. In other words, objectivity means the ability to see and accept facts as they are, not as one might wish them to be.
- Scientific observations are made under controlled conditions, i.e., even though laboratories are not used where all variables may be totally controlled, yet it is possible to control quite a few variables even when studying human behaviour.
- Scientific observations are made by trained observers. Untrained observers do not know where to look for facts and how to collect them and analyze and interpret them. Their inaccurate observations, biases, and casual impressions may impinge upon their efforts, which may adversely affect the results or generalizations.
Scientific Methods:
At the core, all sciences lie a problem-solving approach called the scientific method. It is a set of procedures that scientists follow in order to gain knowledge about the world. It is a process for experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions. It doesn’t mean that every scientist uses exactly the same procedure. When direct experimentation is not possible, scientists modify the method. Even when modified, the goal remains the same: to discover cause and effect relationships by asking questions, carefully gathering and examining the evidence, and seeing if all the available information can be combined into a logical answer. Collecting lots of data without being able to find any basic underlying principles is not science.
Steps in Scientific Methods:
- Defining the problem;
- Reviewing the literature;
- Formulating the hypotheses or making tentative propositions to explain certain facts;
- Planning the research design;
- Collecting the data and
- Drawing conclusions or making generalizations.
Scientific theories are created to explain the results of experiments that were created under certain conditions. A successful theory will also make new predictions about new experiments under new conditions. Thus, the scientific method is an iterative process because after finding the conclusion, the scientist may come up with a new hypothesis. The findings of science that have been tested and appear to be correct are known as scientific truths, though these scientific truths are subject to continuous re-examination and modification in the light of new evidence.
Criminology as Science:
Scientific Approach in Criminology:
- Theory development: Criminologists develop theories to explain why individuals engage in criminal behaviour. These theories may focus on social factors (such as poverty, inequality, and social disorganization), psychological factors (such as personality traits and cognitive processes), or biological factors (such as genetics and brain functioning).
- Research methods: Criminological research employs various quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data and test hypotheses. These methods may include surveys, interviews, experiments, observations, and analysis of existing data sources such as crime statistics and criminal justice records.
- Data analysis: Criminologists analyze collected data using statistical techniques and other analytical tools to identify patterns, correlations, and causal relationships. This analysis helps uncover factors that contribute to criminal behaviour, victimization, and the effectiveness of interventions.
- Policy Implications: The scientific findings in criminology inform the development and evaluation of crime prevention strategies, law enforcement policies, and correctional interventions. Evidence-based approaches are used to design and implement programs that aim to reduce crime, increase public safety, and promote the rehabilitation of offenders.
Thus, criminology is the scientific approach to studying criminal behaviour. Sutherland Criminological Theories and Cressey state “Criminology is the body of knowledge regarding crime as a social phenomenon. It includes within its scope the process of making laws, of breaking laws, and of reacting toward the breaking of laws…” The objective of criminology is the development of a body of general and verified principles and of other types of knowledge regarding this process of law, crime and treatment. The idea of a science of criminology involves the systematic study of crime, criminals, and criminal behaviour using scientific methods and principles. It aims to understand the causes, patterns, and consequences of crime, as well as develop effective strategies for crime prevention, law enforcement, and rehabilitation.
With these concepts of science and scientific method, criminology may be described as a science because it uses the method that is defined as science.
Conclusion:
Criminology allows for an accurate and perceptive examination of many of the concerns that surround offending deviant behavior. Through the study of criminology and the analysis of data research of the various crimes committed, it is possible for law enforcement to be better aware of criminal behavior and potentially criminal situations, thus creating more allowance for the intervention and reduction of crime. Through statistical data gathered from the various crimes committed, efforts can be made to define, and outline what the factors regarding crime commission. Police and other law enforcement agencies can begin to determine traits of criminal behavior through patterns in this data. By being aware of these behavioral traits, it may be possible to recognize something abnormal and potentially criminal. There also is the chance to become aware of certain areas, times, type of people typically and potentially involved in these criminal activities.