This course is designed to introduce students to the social sciences perspective with regards to the study of The Penal Code of Finland and the political actions and reactions to crime and criminality, by seeking a rational explanation for the epidemic of crime, through assessment of the essential characteristics of typical criminals and inductively identifies their common principles. The course also glance at the methodological crime prevention framework, with special references to the three areas of action (safe environment, high-risk potential and future crime) that have been conceptualised as primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. 

The course objectives will also provide students with an understanding of the four interrelated movements, factors, and methodologies that led to the birth of Convict Criminology:

1. Theoretical developments in criminology
2. The failure of prisons
3. The authenticity of insider perspectives
4. And the centrality of ethnography

The course will also elaborate on:
1. The nature and extent of crime in contemporary Finland through political lens.
2. The concepts and theories related to the causes of crime, including an in-depth examination of causal theories, nature, extent, control, and prevention of crime.
3. Locking up and the cost of housing inmates as a political option.
4. A comparison of crime preventions among European States.
5. An appreciation for the diverse values and viewpoints within the political system.

Class meetings: the class will meet two-three hours weekly. Meetings will involve both lectures and discussions. Student should complete the reading assigned before each meeting. Class participation is very important.

The course will include a three-day excursion to Estonia old and new Prisons (Thursday 27th - Saturday 29th January 2011). For further information on the excursion, please see the course materials page (http://www.uta.fi/laitokset/politiikka/opiskelu/aineistot.php).

Requirements

Participation: All Students are required to participate in class discussion and readings.
Presentations: Each student is also expected to do a short presentation, using the required reading materials as a point of departure.

Compensates from VALTA5, 2 cr or VALTS2c, 3 cr.