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Criminals Books
Best books
Cesare Lombroso
L'uomo delinquente in rapporto all'antropologia, alla giurisprudenza ed alla psichiatria (Cause e rimedi)
"L'uomo delinquente" by Cesare Lombroso is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the intersection of crime, anthropology, jurisprudence, and psychiatry, exploring the causes and potential remedies for criminal behavior. Lombroso argues against the prevailing views—that criminals are irrevocably destined for crime—by examining various contributing factors, including environmental and social influences. The opening of the text establishes Lombroso's aim to address critiques of his previous work by clearly outlining the multi-faceted roots of crime. He begins by discussing the influence of environmental factors, such as excessive heat, on human behavior and crime rates. Using historical and statistical data, he notes how meteorological conditions might contribute to acts of violence and rebellion, emphasizing that these acts are not solely determined by individual morality but rather by a complex interplay of situational stimuli. Lombroso's approach suggests that understanding these influences is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies in dealing with criminality.
Enrico Ferri
Criminal Sociology
"Criminal Sociology" by Enrico Ferri is a criminological work originally published in 1884. This influential text represents the positive school of criminology, shifting focus from crime itself to the criminal as a product of physical and social environment. Ferri examines criminal anthropology, statistical patterns of criminal behavior, and proposes practical reforms for penal legislation. The work combines anthropological research with criminal statistics and law, challenging traditional theological and ethical perspectives in favor of physical and social science approaches to understanding crime causation and prevention.
Charles Kingston
Remarkable rogues : $b The careers of some notable criminals of Europe and America
"Remarkable Rogues" by Charles Kingston is a collection of biographical accounts written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the lives and crimes of various notable criminals from Europe and America, painting intriguing portraits of infamous characters such as Marie Tarnowska and her descent into moral depravity. Each chapter delves into the motivations and consequences of their actions, providing a glimpse into the darker sides of human nature. At the start of the book, Kingston introduces Marie Tarnowska, a beautiful Russian aristocrat whose life spirals into tragedy after she elopes with the inappropriate Count Vassili Tarnowska. As she grapples with the harsh realities of her marriage, a series of tumultuous affairs ensue, illustrating her descent into a life of deception and crime. Her story unfolds dramatically, marked by jealousy, rebellion, and ultimately, a quest for financial security. The opening sets the tone for a detailed exploration of her character and backdrop, hinting at the impactful consequences of her choices and an inevitable confrontation with justice.
Robert Blatchford
Not Guilty: A Defence of the Bottom Dog
"Not Guilty: A Defence of the Bottom Dog" by Robert Blatchford is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The book addresses the concept of morality and justice from the perspective of those marginalized or oppressed in society, often referred to as the "Bottom Dog." The author challenges traditional views on punishment and morality, arguing for compassion and understanding toward individuals shaped by their circumstances of birth and environment. The opening of the text presents the author's apology to readers, emphasizing that he wishes to engage them in a straightforward discussion about serious societal issues rather than a dry academic treatise. Blatchford introduces his main argument, asserting that many social ills are not the result of individual sinfulness but are rooted in conditions beyond people’s control, such as heredity and environment. He rejects the idea of punishing individuals simply for being born into harsh circumstances, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to be moral and just in a flawed society.
George Chetwynd Griffith
In an Unknown Prison Land An account of convicts and colonists in New Caledonia with jottings out and home
"In an Unknown Prison Land" by George Chetwynd Griffith is a detailed account written in the early 20th century. The text explores the realities of convicts and colonists in New Caledonia, providing insights into the lives of those affected by the penal system as well as the challenges of colonization. The work aims to highlight the stark contrasts between the beautiful landscapes of the island and the grim realities faced by its inhabitants, particularly focusing on the moral and social challenges posed by a convict population. At the start of the narrative, the author discusses his journey to New Caledonia, contrasting the experiences of travelers in America with the notion of freedom and personal initiative in colonization. Griffith introduces themes of economic exploitation and social dynamics by describing the landscape and social structure of this penal colony, outlining the challenges and nature of life for both convicts and potential colonists. He emphasizes the authoritativeness of the French governance over the settlers and convicts, while foreshadowing the complex dynamics between these groups and the potential failure of real colonization due to the ingrained social issues derived from crime and governance.
Winifred Louise Taylor
The Man Behind the Bars
"The Man Behind the Bars" by Winifred Louise Taylor is a reflective account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the author's experiences and observations while interacting with prisoners, revealing the myriad human stories behind bars. Taylor explores the complexities of crime and punishment, highlighting individuals, such as a young man named Willy, who seek redemption and understanding within a flawed system. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Taylor's personal journey of discovering her passion for helping incarcerated individuals, starting from her time as a Sunday school teacher. She is motivated by a desire to make a positive impact on others' lives, which leads her to form a library for men in jail. After meeting Willy, a young prisoner whose crime stems from desperation, she becomes increasingly invested in the welfare of inmates. Various encounters and stories unfold, showcasing the struggles of prison life, the importance of empathy, and the potential for reform, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of humanity and justice throughout the book.
Wellington Scott
Seventeen Years in the Underworld
"Seventeen Years in the Underworld" by Wellington Scott is a personal narrative and autobiographical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author’s tumultuous journey through crime, incarceration, and eventual redemption, providing an insight into the life of those who dwell in the underworld of society. The author recounts his early life, the descent into criminal activities, and the challenges encountered in reform schools and prisons, ultimately offering a perspective on the underlying issues of crime and rehabilitation. At the start of the narrative, Wellington Scott reflects on his childhood marked by a loving yet financially modest family background. After experiencing the loss of his mother and the burden of family caregiving, he struggles with feelings of isolation and a vision impairment that further alienates him from his peers. This discomfort leads him to seek solace in a nearby pool room, where he finds companionship among other boys, but it also introduces him to the seductive allure of gambling and petty crime. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for his gradual descent into a life of crime, detailing the experiences and environmental influences that shape his path toward imprisonment and reform, while foreshadowing the ongoing struggle between morality and the temptations of the underworld.
William Douglas Morrison
Crime and Its Causes
"Crime and Its Causes" by William Douglas Morrison is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the complex phenomena surrounding crime, aiming to investigate the underlying causes that contribute to criminal behavior, as well as society's responses to it. Through a rigorous examination of data and social factors, Morrison seeks to inform better criminal justice policies and understand widely shared misconceptions about crime. The opening of the work sets a foundation for understanding crime from a scientific perspective, highlighting the necessity of a systematic approach to criminology. Morrison discusses the historical lack of reliable crime statistics, which impeded earlier efforts to detect patterns in crime and the effectiveness of punishments. He argues that while economic conditions like poverty are often blamed for crime, they are only partly responsible, asserting that mental and physical health, the characteristics of individuals, and broader social contexts also play crucial roles. With a focus on refining methodologies, Morrison introduces key concepts that will be examined in detail throughout subsequent chapters.
Henry Ward Beecher
Twelve Causes of Dishonesty
"Twelve Causes of Dishonesty" by Henry Ward Beecher is a moral treatise written in the late 19th century. This book examines the roots and manifestations of dishonesty in society, reflecting the ethical concerns of its time. As a work of philosophical and moral reflection, it aims to elucidate the factors contributing to dishonest behavior in individuals and the broader social context. In the book, Beecher identifies twelve distinct causes of dishonesty, ranging from innate tendencies towards deceit to the influence of public sentiment and legal systems that enable unethical behavior. He explores how familial teachings, societal pressures, and personal circumstances contribute to a culture of dishonesty. Among the key themes, he emphasizes the role of extravagance, debt, and political corruption in fostering a mindset that tolerates or even encourages dishonest practices. By detailing these causes, Beecher seeks to encourage moral introspection and inspire a return to ethical principles, warning that pervasive dishonesty could lead to societal decay.
James Leslie Allan Kayll
A Plea for the Criminal Being a reply to Dr. Chapple's work: 'The Fertility of the Unfit', and an Attempt to explain the leading principles of Criminological and Reformatory Science
"A Plea for the Criminal" by James Leslie Allan Kayll is a sociopolitical treatise written in the early 20th century. The book argues for a compassionate and understanding approach to criminals, urging society to reconsider its punitive mindset and the effectiveness of its justice systems. By addressing the complexities behind criminal behavior, Kayll aims to promote the reform of the individual rather than mere punishment. The opening of the work introduces Kayll's main premise: that society should adopt a more empathetic view towards criminals by attempting to understand their circumstances and motivations. He critiques the prevailing attitudes of revenge and prejudice that shape public perception of crime, suggesting that these attitudes fail to acknowledge the underlying causes of criminal behavior. This introductory chapter sets the stage for a thorough exploration of criminological principles, emphasizing that the reform of criminals should take precedence over punitive measures that merely perpetuate their anti-social tendencies. Kayll reflects on the nature of crime and argues for the importance of human connections and rehabilitative efforts in restoring individuals to society.
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