Introducing crime, criminal justice and religion - a critical appraisal

This chapter introduces the volume and recognises the importance of reflecting on and considering the relationship between crime, criminal justice and religion. Since 9/11, there has been a rapid growth in the use of scientific- and technology-driven methods and techniques in responding to crime by institutions of the criminal justice system. The focus on science and technology in addressing crime has also been reflected in the academic discourse on crime, criminality and criminal justice. Arguably, the dominance of science and technology within this context has led to overlooking other (important) factors that impact on crime and the criminal justice system, such as religion. This volume seeks to bridge that gap in the examination of crime and criminal justice by taking both a historical and a contemporary lens to explore religion in the context of crime and criminal justice and offer a unique perspective by considering the impact on modern-day policy and practice, while considering a range of issues such as criminal justice professions, abortion and hate crime. Therefore, the chapter recognises that this volume acts to renew the importance that religion has in terms of how we view and ultimately address crime and deliver criminal justice.