SOC5002 - Ethical Issues in Criminology

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the often contentious and conflicting positions regarding the enforcement of morals and the ethics of the criminal justice system;
Demonstrate an ability to engage critically with contemporary debates regarding various aspects that are inherent in, and linked to, the criminal justice system;
Assess the pros and cons regarding the ethical treatment of criminals with and without mental disorders;
Critically evaluate ethical questions regarding the treatment of prisoners, using children as witnesses, disclosure of information, and other related themes.

Content:

The module will focus on some of the following themes:

• Should the law enforce morality?
• The Hart/Devlin debate
• The punishment of criminals
• Deterrence, retributivist and rehabilitation theories
• Holding the police accountable
• The treatment and rights of prisoners
• DNA data banks; criminal investigations and civil liberties
• Mental disorder and criminal law
• Accountability in the criminal justice system
• Children as witnesses
• Crime in the media
• Sharing of information on criminals
• Issues beyond prison: ethical issues regarding adjustment and integration post-prison sentence

Learning and Teaching Information:

Assessment:

001 Directed Activities 10%
002 Essay - 2000 words 45%
003 Individual Presentation 45%

Fact File

Module Coordinator -
Level - 5
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered -

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