Wider and deeper: The future of criminology in Europe

Abstract

The European Journal of Criminology was launched 10 years ago. In this article, the journal’s founding editor, David J. Smith, reflects on the journal’s contribution to European criminology. The article recalls the ambitions for the journal when the idea was first discussed, and looks back over the first nine volumes to assess the extent to which these ambitions have been fulfilled. It argues that the study of crime must draw on both humanist and scientific traditions. Because its moral and political dimensions are inescapable, criminology is bound to have a contested relationship with government. The weaknesses of the journal so far have been on the humanist and critical side, with an associated lack of deep and detailed qualitative research. Among the many strengths are lively and varied comparative studies, research using innovative methods, and articles that open up new fields and shift the emphasis away from minor offending by juveniles. Building on this base, this article discusses the role the journal should play in creating the future of European criminology.