Overview

This module is broken into three connected areas for examination all focused on the study of 'the state 'in criminology.

Part One: State crimes From ghettos to genocide: how does criminology and criminal justice respond when it is the State who offends? How do we define crime, justice and victimisation in this context?

Part Two: Institutional power Prisons represent institutional power at both physical and symbolic levels. Power may take many forms and examples include: prisons and the construction of masculinities and femininities; political power in prisons.

Part Three: Interpersonal crimes Many crimes of power take place at an interpersonal level: examples may include ‘honour’- based violence and coercion; homophobic hate crimes; victimisation of the homeless and gender violence in intimate relationships. How do social and criminal justice systems respond to these?

Assessment Strategy

Essays and coursework will be assessed on the degree of engagement with academic literature and student’s ability to summarise and critically analyse key issues and topics.

Excellent work A- and above = Significant critical analysis of relevant theory discussed in the module Use of academic texts (including the texts suggested in class + other you have found) Use of academic journal articles that a) show theory in practice b) present a critique of the theory Use of real world examples to illustrate the theory in practice Assignments based on critique of academic work and good use of citation and quotation

Good work C+ to B+ = Some critical analysis of relevant theory, Use of academic texts (The texts suggested in class) Use of real world examples to illustrate the theory in practice Assignments based on critique of academic books and good use of citation and quotation

Passable work D- to C = Very little critical analysis of relevant theory, Use of academic texts (The texts I suggest) Heavy reliance on real world examples to illustrate the theory in practice Assignments based on a little academic work and a lot of media or web based resources some use of citation and quotation

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse criminological theories to examine power dynamics and their relation to criminal behaviour.

• Critically discuss the repercussions of crime on individuals with diverse gender, race, class, and socio-economic backgrounds.

• Develop key skills in relation to the analysis and evaluation of current research literature on institutional power.

• Exhibit critical thinking abilities by elucidating the correlation between state power and the formulation of crime and deviance definitions.

• Express a coherent analysis of crime, criminality, and victimization shaped by institutional power.