This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module introduces students to a range of case studies and topics – both historical and contemporary – that are analysed through the framework of state crime. Beginning with a theoretical introduction to this framework, students will learn to integrate their understanding of state-perpetrated atrocity with a criminological analysis of the nature of state violence, the objectives and driving forces of state crime, the denial of state crime, and the potential avenues for accountability and justice. It will examine not only state crime but examples of resistance to state crime in the form of protest, documentation, legal challenges and artistic and media responses. The module will allow students to understand the potential to resist state crime and the limits of that potential in complex circumstances.
Total contact hours: 22
Total private study hours: 128
Total module study hours: 150
BA Criminology and associated degree courses – optional module
Main assessment methods
Coursework - Academic poster presentation - 50%
Coursework – case study assignment (2000 words) - 50%
Students must pass both assignments in order to pass the module.
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
Chambliss, W., Michalowski, R. and Kramer, Ronald C. (eds.) (2014) State Crime in the Global Age. Abingdon and New York: Routledge.
Collins, V. E. (2016) State Crime, Women and Gender. Routledge: London and New York.
Feitlowitz, M. (2011) A Lexicon of Terror: Argentina and the Legacies of Torture. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Green, P. and Ward, T. (2004) State Crime: Governments, Violence, Corruption. London: Pluto Press.
Khalili, L. (2013) Time in the Shadows: Confinement in Counterinsurgencies. Stanford: Stanford University Press.
Stanley, E. and McCulloch, J. (eds) (2013) State Crime and Resistance. London and New York: Routledge.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Understand and explain the nature of the state as an object of criminological inquiry, the definitional processes of labelling state-
perpetrated acts as criminal and the scale and type of crimes committed by state agents and agencies.
2. Understand the dynamics that generate and impede resistance to state crime.
3. Apply and analyse contemporary theoretical perspectives on state crime and resistance across a range of contexts and practices.
4. Understand and evaluate resistance to state crime in civil society activism and protest, including the potential and limitations of that
resistance.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate skills in critical thinking and the practical application of concepts to case studies.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary academic debates, current global politics and justice struggles.
3. Demonstrate skills in independent research by developing a case study, relying on appropriate evidence and analysing the case study
with appropriate theory.
4. Communicate the findings of an independent case study in a creative manner, in an academic poster and presentation.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
