The First British Crime Survey: An Ethnography of Criminology within Government

The First British Crime Survey: An Ethnography of Criminology within Government explores the early history of the British Crime Survey, a research enterprise widely perceived to be an international gold standard for the measurement of crime. It traces the administrative origins of the survey to the growing influence of an international network of criminologists and public officials, the organization of Home Office research programs, and public officials' concerns about urban uprisings, efficiency reforms, media coverage, and the politics of crime.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2023
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

The First British Crime Survey: An Ethnography of Criminology within Government delves into the early origins and evolution of the British Crime Survey, now recognized as the Crime Survey for England and Wales, a highly esteemed research enterprise internationally acclaimed for its pioneering efforts in measuring crime. Spanning four decades, this survey has profoundly impacted public discourse by shedding light on emerging trends in criminal behavior and shaping perceptions of the criminal justice system. The administrative roots of the survey can be traced back to the increasing influence of an international network of criminologists and public officials dedicated to crime prevention and measurement, the organization of Home Office research programs, and concerns among public officials regarding urban uprisings, efficiency reforms, media coverage, and the politics of crime.

The First British Crime Survey: An Ethnography of Criminology within Government explores the historical development of this survey through the innovative practices of the 'crime survey circus,' which introduced groundbreaking methods for counting and reporting crime. Julian Molina offers a unique perspective on how government officials, academics, and 'administrative criminologists' navigate the practical complexities associated with large-scale data projects. Drawing upon archival sources, interviews with government officials and criminologists, and the authors' firsthand experience utilizing survey data within government, this ethnography provides a comprehensive account of the British Crime Survey's evolution.

A valuable resource for scholars interested in exploring the intricate relationships between 'law and order politics, crime statistics, administrative criminology, and the criminal justice system,' The First British Crime Survey: An Ethnography of Criminology within Government appeals to a wide audience. Its insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage make it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the historical trajectory and contemporary significance of the British Crime Survey.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803822761