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Situational crime prevention and its discontents: rational choice theory versus the 'culture of now'

Hayward, Keith J. (2007) Situational crime prevention and its discontents: rational choice theory versus the 'culture of now'. Social Policy & Administration, 41 (3). pp. 232-250. ISSN 0144-5596. (doi:10.1111/j.1467-9515.2007.00550.x) (Access to this publication is currently restricted. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:261)

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Language: English

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Abstract

The rational choice theory of crime and its cognate field of study, situational crime prevention, have exerted a considerable influence in criminal justice policy and criminology. This article argues that, while undeniably useful as a means of reducing property or acquisitive crime, rational choice-inspired situational crime prevention initiatives are limited when it comes to offering protection against a growing number of so-called ‘expressive crimes’. Developing this critique, the article will criticize the sociologically hollow narrative associated with rational choice theories of crime by drawing on recent research in social theory and consumer studies. It argues that the growing tendency among many young individuals to engage in certain forms of criminal decision-making ‘strategies’ may simply be the by-product of a series of subjectivities and emotions that reflect the material values and cultural logic associated with late modern consumerism.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1111/j.1467-9515.2007.00550.x
Uncontrolled keywords: Criminal justice;Situational crime prevention;Rational choice theory;Cultural criminology;Consumerism
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
H Social Sciences > HM Sociology
Divisions: Divisions > Division for the Study of Law, Society and Social Justice > School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research
Depositing User: Samantha Osborne
Date Deposited: 19 Dec 2007 18:07 UTC
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2021 09:39 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/261 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Hayward, Keith J..

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