Introduction

Abstract

The work of (Loader and Sparks, Public Criminology?, 2010) has raised questions about the role of Criminology in bringing criminological knowledge into public debate, with the aim of achieving changes in attitudes, political discourses and crucially, policy. Indeed, this discussion has morphed into something that is commonly termed, ‘Public Criminology’ or ‘Criminologies’. However, whilst the progressive nature of Public Criminology has been acknowledged in terms of its influence on critical criminologists and some areas of policy and practice development, it might be argued that the discussion so far has been limited to these areas, and therefore, there are opportunities that might explore where Public Criminology could and should go. In an endeavour to build on existing discussions, the authors of this edited book brought together colleagues from across the globe who have developed Public Criminology around two themes: Research Methodologies and Academic Activism; and Public Criminology and Pedagogical Practice.