The book explores the key issues, philosophies and debates in criminology, making use of a variety of writers and texts to illuminate recurring themes and tensions in the field. Students are encouraged to become aware of what constitutes data in criminology and to recognize the uses of theory in evaluating criminological problems. In a ground plan of the subject, the history of criminology is set alongside current information about the justice system and awareness of current trends in research. This provides an excellent base on which new students can build their study.

"I enjoyed reading Making Sense of Criminology. It is an interesting, accessible, wide-ranging and thoroughly up to date introduction to criminology that should find its way onto many reading lists. Students and teachers alike will find it a valuable resource."

Simon Holdaway, Sheffield University

"This lively and provocative text offers a thoughtful introduction to the issues and debates that constitute the discipline of criminology. Without ducking difficulties, it manages to be both authoritative and concise. I am sure it will encourage new students to 'make sense of criminology'."

Tony Jefferson, Keele University

Keith Soothill is Professor of Social Research at Lancaster University; Moira Peelo and Claire Taylor are both researching in areas of criminology, also at Lancaster University.