Conjectures, Refutations, and (Elusive) Resolution: An Exercise in the Sociology of Knowledge within Criminology

Authors

Brendan Dooley, Mount St. Mary’s University

Abstract

"An analysis of in-depth discussions (oral histories) with 17 leading criminologists on the seminal debates in which they each participated showcases the benefits of intellectual debate. Over the last half-century, the field’s understanding of crime and its control has experienced genuine gains through a vigorous exchange of conjectures and refutations. It stands to benefit from more of these. However, there is a tension between professional and scientific concerns that limits the expansion of this process. The insistence on open ended inquiry in advancing professional ends dulls the interest and opportunity for debating first principles. As a result, the field is populated by numerous unresolved theoretical disputes. In attempting to settle the dilemma posed by competing interests, a compromise that works to satisfy the concerns of both science and the profession is offered. Crafting an appreciation for where the limits of collective knowledge are found would serve to outline an agenda for discovery while stimulating debate."

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.

Recommended Citation

Dooley, Brendan (2017) "Conjectures, Refutations, and (Elusive) Resolution: An Exercise in the Sociology of Knowledge within Criminology," Qualitative Criminology (QC): Vol. 5: No. 1, Article 5.
Available at: https://dc.swosu.edu/qc/vol5/iss1/5