Criminological Theory: Context and Consequences by Lilly, Cullen and Ball - Article Example

The chapter begins by exploring how developments have shaped the practices informed by critical criminology. Subsequently, other essential elements and approaches of contemporary criminology are also explored, including the European approach to abolitionism, the Left realism, convict criminology, cultural criminology, anarchist criminology, and consumer criminology. One of the points that come out clear is that even the proposed critical theory is not exhaustive and also counts on other approaches, such as the discourse analysis, topology theory, and peacemaking theory, for reinforcement.

There are other certain pivotal points that would never have gone unnoticed. New criminology is explored as possessing various criticisms, which label it as flawed and baseless. The new realism is dismissed as inclining to political and social orientation. Abolitionism is also criticized as being unrealistic, as far as the supporting premises are concerned. Convict criminology asserts that criminological views have been advanced by those who come from privileged classes, who miss out on the real experiences in the world of crimes.

Thus, the theorists are dismissed for failing to be inclusive. Cultural criminology posits that crimes should be approached on the basis of culture. Its position has attracted criticism which labels it as lacking objectivity, as far as the process of addressing crimes is concerned (Lilly, Cullen and Ball 229). These points lead to the inference that a comprehensive and perfect critical criminology theory is lacking. Instead, the term integrates an array of theories, with each informed by a different method, origin, and distinct political ideologies.

However, what appears to tie the diverse critical theories is their ascription that crimes are caused by unequal classes, strained gender relations, and racism and ethnic differences, as well as social and economic disparities. The modern critical theories also lay emphasis on the need to give consideration to the social and structural changes in society in addressing incidents of crimes. The critical theories are presented as having been particularly pivotal in informing the contemporary criminological practices, including those that are research-based.