This book offers a critical introduction to trends and developments in contemporary criminological theory. Designed both as a companion to An Introduction to Criminological Theory – also by Roger Hopkins Burke and published by Routledge – and as a standalone advanced textbook, it develops themes introduced previously in more detail, incorporates new critical and radical concepts and explores cutting-edge advances in theory. Key topics include the following:

• Constitutive, anarchist, green and species, bio-critical, cultural, abolitionist and convict criminologies
• Globalization and organized crime
• Southern theory
• Critical race theory
• Terrorism and state violence
• Gender, feminism and masculinity
• Ultra-realism
• Radical moral communitarianism

These key issues are discussed in the context of debates about the fragmentation of modernity and the postmodern condition; the rise of political populism, risk, surveillance and social control, and speculation about living in post-COVID-19 society and the future of neoliberalism.

Written in a clear and direct style, this book will appeal to both undergraduate and postgraduate students of criminology, sociology and politics and is essential reading for advanced students of criminology looking for a way to engage with contemporary themes and concepts in theory.

Roger Hopkins Burke is Visiting Professor of Criminology at the University of Derby and an independent consultant. He is the author of numerous books and articles in the areas of criminology, criminal justice and social philosophy with vast teaching and research experience.