CRM120 terminology list Flashcards
(28 cards)
Define Metaphysics
The branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of reality, existence, and the universe. In criminology, it underpins questions about the nature of crime, morality, and human behaviour.
Define Idealism
A philosophical approach that emphasizes the role of ideas and consciousness over material conditions. In criminology, idealists may focus on moral values or ethical dimensions of crime and justice.
Define Reducationism
The view that complex phenomena (like crime) can be explained by reducing them to their simpler components, such as biology or psychology.
Define Eptistemology
The study of knowledge—how we know what we know. In criminology, this relates to how we justify claims about crime, offenders, and justice systems.
Empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience and observation. Criminologists use this to gather data through research and evidence
Rationalism
The belief that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge. Criminological theories often apply rational models to explain criminal decision-making (e.g., Rational Choice Theory)
Inductive reasoning
Drawing general conclusions from specific observations. In criminology, this often involves developing theories based on patterns in crime data
Deductive reasoning
Starting with a general theory or hypothesis and testing it with specific data or cases.
Hypothesis
A testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables in a criminological study
Reliability
The consistency of a measurement or research method. A reliable test will produce the same results under consistent conditions.
Validity
The extent to which a test or study measures what it claims to measure (e.g., does a crime scale actually measure criminal behavior?).
Parsimony
The principle that the simplest explanation, with the fewest assumptions, is usually preferred. In criminology, parsimonious theories are valued for clarity and efficiency.
Positivism
A scientific approach asserting that knowledge should be based on observable phenomena and empirical data. Classic criminology adopted positivism in studying causes of crime.
Relativism
The idea that truth and morality are not absolute but vary across cultures or individuals. In criminology, this might inform approaches to justice or definitions of crime.
Theory
A system of ideas intended to explain something, such as the causes of crime or criminal behavior. Theories guide research and policy in criminology.
Typology
A classification system that categorizes entities (e.g., types of criminals or crimes) based on shared characteristics.
Taxonomy
A hierarchical classification system used to organize different concepts or behaviors, such as types of offenders or crimes
Grounded theory
A qualitative research method where theories are developed inductively from data, often used to explore complex criminal behaviors or justice system processes.
Hermeneutics
The art and science of interpretation, especially of texts. In criminology, it can be used to understand legal documents, narratives, or qualitative data.
Cronbach’s Alpha
A statistic used to assess the internal consistency or reliability of a scale (e.g., measuring attitudes toward crime).
Independent Variable
The variable manipulated or categorized to observe its effect on the dependent variable (e.g., socioeconomic status in a crime study).
Dependant variable
The outcome or variable being measured (e.g., crime rate).
Empirical criterion
A standard based on observable and measurable evidence. In criminology, it’s used to validate theories or findings.
Correlation
A statistical relationship between two variables, showing how one may predict or relate to another (not necessarily causation).
