Extreme Murder

Catalog description

This course examines the phenomenon of extreme murder. In particular, serial killers, spree killers, and mass murderers - as well as the circumstances surrounding these events - are explored. Other egregious types of offenders may also be reviewed. Throughout the duration of the course, students will learn about infamous killers as well as those who are less recognized in media and popular culture, and the impact of the crimes on persons and society. Students in this course will study copious cases and take a multidimensional approach to critically examine risk factors/causes underlying such violence. In addition to discussing offenders, victims and the context within which victims and offenders interact (the criminal event perspective) will be analyzed. Special attention will be given to sex and gender, among other variables such as race and class. Students will also explore theory and give thought to deterministic, social, cultural, and other explanations. Importantly, they will come to understand how criminological and sociological research has contributed to knowledge (e.g. through qualitative and quantitative techniques) and shaped practice (e.g. criminal profiling, risk assessment, proactive policing, victim-services, etc.).