Criminology and Criminal Justice - Essay Example

Running Head: CRIMINOLOGY AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE Topic: Difference between Criminology and Criminal Justice Lecturer: Date of Presentation: Distinction between Criminology and Criminal Justice Criminology is the application of scientific methods of research to study criminal behaviour and the reactions of society towards crime. Criminal justice involves enforcing laws to curb criminal behaviour through established institutions. Apart from the definition, there are other distinctions between the two.

Criminology involves the process of making laws, breaking laws and the reaction of society. The society sets the rules that govern a community and breaking these rules is considered a defiant behaviour that is punishable. Criminal justice on the other hand, involves the procedure of investigation, gathering evidence, taking offenders to court for trial and sentencing after which criminals are taken to correctional facilities for punishment like jails. Unlike in criminology, the law is set by the legislature to govern all communities irrespective of culture.

Criminology recommends investigations and possible punishment for offenders while criminal justice carries out actual investigation and prosecution. Criminology researches on why crimes are committed while criminal justice uses these findings to fight crime through systems. Criminology is psychological in nature while criminal justice is action oriented.