Prospects for the Use of Historical Criminology

• In Event: The Future of Criminology can be Found in its Past

Abstract

What, if anything, is to be gained from encouraging yet another perspective within criminology? In this instance, we offer a defense as well as statement of the virtues of bringing a historical frame of reference to the exploration of the underpinnings of crime and its control. There are several pragmatic advantages presented. These offer advantages that will redound to the profession of criminology and criminal justice, as well as its scientific practice. Regarding the former, there are practical tasks that include greater effort at archiving data, minting new outlets to publish within, and fostering further engagement with the discipline of history to enhance interdisciplinarity that all enhance career opportunities. Moving beyond the relatively superficial, there are more enduring contributions to the intellectual foundation of the field that are enhanced with absorbing historical approaches. New topical areas, such as documenting collective memory and accounts of the evolution of the science of criminology hold promise. Affixing a reference point in the past, as opposed to the dominant narrative of presentism, reminds us of the lessons of the past. There are examples of failure, like our present absence of theoretical development, that nudge us toward humility; science leaving room doubt deserves more than a tacit acknowledgement. Alternatively, there are examples of success that deserve memorializing, if for no other reason than avoiding the prospect of financing yet more research to answer largely settled matters. Furthermore, there are opportunities that bridge the dichotomy, such as developing and applying historical methodology.

Authors

• Brendan D. Dooley, Mount St. Mary's University

• Michael Rocque, Bates College