Contemporary Intersectional Criminology in the UK: Examining the Boundaries of Intersectionality and Crime

This collection showcases the value of intersectionality theory in criminological research, exploring experiences of harm, hate crimes, and offending, and the impacts of oppression on complex personal identities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This groundbreaking collection is the first dedicated to the use of intersectionality as a theory, framework, and methodology in criminological research. It brings together cutting-edge British research to showcase the immense value of intersectionality theory in both familiar and innovative applications, encompassing a wide range of factors such as race, gender, class, disability, sexual orientation, and age. Expert scholars delve into a diverse array of experiences related to harm, hate crimes, and offending, while also illustrating the profound impacts of oppression on complex personal identities that defy easy categorization within homogenized communities. By challenging conventional perspectives, this book firmly establishes intersectionality as a central and indispensable aspect of criminology.

Introduction:
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of considering multiple dimensions of identity in the study of crime and justice. Intersectionality, as a theoretical framework, provides a powerful tool for understanding the complex interplay between different social categories such as race, gender, class, disability, sexual orientation, and age. This collection of essays aims to showcase the value of intersectionality in criminological research by drawing together contemporary British research on a wide range of topics.

Race, Gender, and Class:
One of the key areas of focus in this collection is the relationship between race, gender, and class. Scholars explore how these social categories intersect to shape individuals' experiences of crime and justice. They examine how racial discrimination, gender inequality, and economic marginalization can contribute to higher rates of criminalization and incarceration among marginalized communities. The essays also highlight the importance of recognizing the intersectionality of these categories and the ways in which they intersect to create unique forms of oppression and discrimination.

Disability and Sexual Orientation:
Another important area of study is the intersectionality of disability and sexual orientation. Scholars examine how individuals with disabilities face unique forms of discrimination and marginalization, particularly in the context of law enforcement and the criminal justice system. They also explore how sexual orientation intersects with disability to create complex and multifaceted experiences of discrimination and marginalization. The essays highlight the need for intersectional approaches to addressing these issues and promoting equity and inclusion.

Age and Criminal Justice:
Age is another social category that plays a significant role in the study of crime and justice. Scholars explore how age intersects with other social categories such as race, gender, and class to shape individuals' experiences of crime and justice. They examine how age discrimination and ageism can contribute to higher rates of criminalization and incarceration among older adults. The essays also highlight the importance of recognizing the unique challenges faced by older adults in the criminal justice system and the need for policies and practices that promote their rights and dignity.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this collection of essays demonstrates the immense value of intersectionality in criminological research. By bringing together contemporary British research on a wide range of topics, it highlights the ways in which different social categories intersect to shape individuals' experiences of crime and justice. The essays provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between race, gender, class, disability, sexual orientation, and age and the ways in which these factors contribute to inequality and discrimination. As criminologists continue to explore the implications of intersectionality, it is clear that this framework will play an increasingly important role in shaping our understanding of crime and justice in the years to come.

ISBN-13: 9781529215953