Crime and Deviance: A Sociological Inquiry 2010
Distributed by Films Media Group, 132 West 31st St., 17th Floor, New York, NY 10001; 800-257-5126
Producer n/a
Director n/a
DVD, color, 48 min.
Sr. High - General Adult
Psychology, Sociology, Crime, Criminal Justice, Ethics
Date Entered: 11/06/2012
Reviewed by Sarah B. Cornell, Portsmouth Public Library, Portsmouth, NHCrime and Deviance: A Sociological Inquiry is a very accessible introduction to concepts covered in basic sociology courses. Each short self-contained chapter could be used independently to reinforce assignments or launch classroom discussion.
North American libraries and instructors should note that this is a British production. Its origin may of course be a benefit, because it could open American students' eyes to historical examples unfamiliar to them (such as the 1964 violence between “mods” and “rockers” studied by sociologist Stan Cohen) or highlight trends and issues which cross cultural boundaries, like texting in class, assisted suicide, and prejudice against those who wear hoodies.
A number of the chapters could be incorporated into courses outside sociology: for example, the segment on changing demographics of criminals might be useful in gender studies, and the segment on moral panics might be useful in courses on the media. Overall, Crime and Deviance is recommended for basic sociology teaching collections.