Criminology is the scientific study of crime, criminals, and the criminal justice system. It examines the nature, causes, and consequences of criminal behavior, seeking to understand why individuals engage in crime and how society responds to such acts. Criminology is not limited to merely studying criminal acts, but also investigates the societal reactions to crime, the policies implemented to combat it, and the broader impact on social structures. As a multidisciplinary field, criminology draws upon theories and methods from sociology, psychology, law, and political science, making it a vital area of study for both academic and practical purposes.
The evolution of criminology dates back to ancient civilizations, where crime and punishment were often directly linked to religious or cultural beliefs. In these early stages, crime was seen as a moral failing or an act that required divine intervention. However, as societies progressed, the understanding of crime became more secular and focused on the individual and social factors influencing criminal behavior. During the 18th century, the field of criminology began to take shape with the introduction of the Classical School of Criminology, which argued that individuals have free will and make rational decisions based on pleasure and pain. This theory laid the foundation for modern criminal law and criminal justice systems.