Criminological Theory is an examination of the major theoretical perspectives in criminology today. Werner J. Einstadter and Stuart Henry lay bare various theorists' ideas about human nature, social structure, social order, concepts of law, crime and criminals, the logic of crime causation, and the policies and practices that follow from these premises. Material is presented and organized around these analytic and critical dimensions throughout the text.

Criminological Theory provides students with a clear overview of the subject that enables informed comparisons among diverse concepts. Abstract concepts are explained clearly to maximize the significance of each theoretical framework. The authors cover the major literature in an engaging, comprehensive, and accessible way, allowing students to develop a critical understanding of foundational and contemporary ideas in Criminology.

Werner J. Einstadter is professor emeritus of criminology and sociology at Eastern Michigan University. He has published works on robbery, critical theory, privacy and corrections. Prior to his academic career, Dr. Einstadter held a number of positions in correctional settings.

Stuart Henry is a professor of criminology and Director of the School of Public Administration and Urban Studies at San Diego State University. Previously he was Chair of Interdisciplinary Studies at Wayne State University. His twenty two books include,Constitutive Criminology (with Dragan Milovanovic), and (with Mark Lanier) What is Crime? (2001),Essential Criminology(2004), andThe Essential Criminology Reader. He serves on the editorial boards ofTheoretical Criminology andCritical Criminology and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Integrative Studies.