This first-week lesson in Criminology provides a foundational understanding of the study of crime, its definitions, and the legal and social frameworks that shape criminal justice systems. The course is designed for students, beginners, and anyone interested in learning how criminology helps explain and manage criminal behavior.

Learners begin by exploring “What is Criminology?”, understanding it as the scientific study of crime, criminals, and society’s responses to unlawful behavior. The lesson then examines “What is Crime?”, discussing how certain acts are classified as criminal depending on societal norms, laws, and cultural expectations. Key distinctions between legal, moral, and social definitions of crime are highlighted to give a broad perspective.

The lesson also addresses the question “Who Decides?”, explaining how governments, legal systems, and policymakers determine which behaviors are criminalized. Learners gain insight into the dynamic nature of laws and how changes in society, politics, and public opinion can influence crime definitions.

By the end of this lesson, participants will have a strong understanding of criminology’s role in analyzing crime, the social construction of criminal behavior, and the de