This concise book covers all the major sociological theories of crime. The book presents each theory in terms of the historical intellectual, sociological, political, and economic factors of the period during which it was developed and demonstrates the application of each theory through explanations of how each translated into the policies and programs of their day. It also demonstrates the contemporary uses of each theory and summarizes the major points of each. The third edition of Criminological Theory has been revised to include comprehensive literature references that reflect the latest views. It also provide expanded coverage of a number of topics, including postmodern criminology, a discussion of Chaos Theory, a separate chapter on Rational Choice and Routine Activities, and separate chapters on Gender/Feminist perspectives. The book also incorporates the latest references to research and theory testing within the discussion of each theory as well as new implications or applications of the theory in policy or criminal justice programming. An essential reference book for every legal professional and everyone involved in law enforcement.