Now in its fourth edition, The SAGE Dictionary of Criminology has established itself as an authoritative reference text for the key concepts, theories, and methods in criminology and criminal justice.

Edited by two leading figures in the field of criminology, the book includes over 325 entries from 120 academics and practitioners from Europe, USA, Canada, China, Australia and New Zealand. All concepts are precisely defined, followed by a section outlining the concept’s origins, development and general significance, a list of associated concepts, and finally, further reading suggestions to help extend students′ knowledge.

New to the 4th Edition:

• Up to 30 new entries, covering topics such as cyber security, wildlife crime, crimmigration, and penal populism.


• Updates to entries including new ‘further reading’ suggestions


• A new section ′Evaluation′ is included for concepts considered to have the greatest theoretical weight, allowing for a critical assessment of how the concept can be debated, challenged and reworked.


• Further contributions from international academics.

An essential reference tool for students and academics within criminology, criminal justice and legal studies.