Abstract:
In this paper thè authors examine thè conditions, both theoretically and politically, which have given rise to the emergence of what has become known as „realist criminology“. They consider thè relation between this approach to the problem of crime and control with other Contemporary approaches. In particular, they examine thè work of thè influential conservative criminologists, as well as the contribution of radicai and feminist perspectives. The article concludes with the elaboration of some theoretical issues which are considered to be necessary for constructing a criminology which is both radicai and practically engaged.