Helping readers better understand the central issues defining contemporary criminology and come to their own conclusions about the value of criminological theorizing, this well-received four-color introductory text builds upon the dichotomy between the social problems perspective and the social responsibility perspective in crime, creating a useful framework for integrating the voluminous material contained within the field of criminology. Interesting, timely, and relevant, it helps readers draw their own conclusions about the American crime problem, prepare for the future, and learn to make informed decisions about public policy in the crime-control area. The author details and analyzes all aspects of crime patterns, methods and theory development, crime causation, crime in the modern world, and response to criminal behavior. For individuals interested in understanding contemporary criminology.