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Contemporary Crime in Historical Perspective: A Comparative Study of London, Stockholm, and Sydney

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  • Ted Robert Gurr

    (Northwestern University)

Abstract

The question is whether historical evidence from other Western societies helps us understand the apparent increase in contemporary crime. Official records of offenses against persons and property in London, Stock holm, and Sydney show remarkably similar trends during the past 150 years. From around 1840 to 1930, indicators of common crime fell by an average ratio of 8:1. Since then, especially since 1950, they have increased by similar ratios. Changes in criminal law, police systems, and judicial policies in these societies are examined to see whether they explain the trends. One conclusion is that the trends are a roughly accurate tracing of real changes in the mag nitude of socially-threatening behavior. Another is that the policies and institutions, credited for a century of improving public order, have little impact on the contemporary increase. It is suggested that those who blame increasing crime on "repressive" or "inefficient" officials are missing the real social and intellectual issues.

Suggested Citation

  • Ted Robert Gurr, 1977. "Contemporary Crime in Historical Perspective: A Comparative Study of London, Stockholm, and Sydney," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 434(1), pages 114-136, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:434:y:1977:i:1:p:114-136
    DOI: 10.1177/000271627743400109
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