Cumulative Scientific Theory Development within Criminology: A Mechanistic Approach

• In Event: Criminological Theory

Abstract

Over the last century, criminology has been very successful in amassing a wealth of empirical data on crime. Unfortunately, it has been far less successful in building a cumulative body of theory capable of explaining the empirical relationships that it has discovered. This paper examines two barriers to the development of such a body of theory: the discipline’s narrow sociological emphasis and its failure to properly utilize theory competition as a means of theory development. To address these issues, the paper proposes the adoption of a mechanistic heuristic and theoretical formalism to spur cumulative scientific theory development within criminology.

Authors

• K. Ryan Proctor, Avila University

• Richard E. Niemeyer, University of Colorado, Denver