Criminal Justice Theory: Anarchy Reigns

Abstract

This paper develops the argument that more emphasis should be placed on theory development and exposing students to theory within criminal justice studies programs as an important element of professional preparation for future criminal justice practitioners. Theory courses in criminal justice studies have often emphasized criminology theory to the exclusion of theory drawn from other areas which might be more appropriate to an understanding of criminal justice organizations, the development of law, concepts of justice, etc. The atheoretical policy orientation of criminal justice research has placed little emphasis on theory formulation and testing. In order to secure our place in the university community as a legitimate area of study for the future and to provide a body of knowledge appropriate for the practice of criminal justice, more attention to theory is in our best interest and in the interest of our students at this time.