Quo vadis kriminologie?

Abstract

Quo vadis kriminologie The author deals with the diversity in contemporary viewpoints among academics in South Africa regarding the subject matter of criminology. The topic subject stems from the rationalization programmes being instituted at South African universities and it is maintained that the future of contextual disciplines such as criminology will be decided according to their material value. Such value is determined in accordance with the recognition of the discipline in question received within the rank s of established professions. T h e sole beneficiary in the utilization of criminological knowledge is the criminal justice system. Therefore all scientific practice in criminology should be directed towards serving this goal. Ananalys is of the philosophical foundations within the framework of Christian scientific practice proves that the subject matter of criminology is juridically orientated and therefore related to jurisprudence and not to the social sciences - a viewpoint held in certain academic q u a rte r s. The material value of criminology can only materialise within the criminal justice system. Criminology should be practised and taught at the law faculties of universities, enhancing p u re criminology and paving the way towards official recognition by the law profession .