Whether it's literature, television or film, crime has always been a popular genre with wide-appeal; but why is this source of fear such a fascinating subject to us? This four track audio album strives to answer this question through interviews with key figures such as criminologists and crime authors, with members of the general public also offering their definitions of crime. This material forms part of The Open University course T214 Understanding systems: making sense of complexity.
Open University criminology lecturer Louise Westmarland shares her interest and knowledge of criminology, justice and crime.
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The notion of crime
Why are we so obsessed with crime fiction? Two novelists of the genre offer us an insight and explore the link between reality and fiction.
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Crime fiction versus crime reality
This track looks at peoples attitudes towards crime and begins to explore definitions of crime, with contributions from the general public.
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Social attitudes towards crime
Is there a moral basis for our legal system? Criminologist Louise Westmarland attempts to answer this question. Criminal psychologist Oliver James looks at the link between upbringing, class and crime.
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The criminal justice system
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Originally published: Wednesday, 7 October 2009
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Body text - Content : Copyright The Open University 2009
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