The subject of ethics in criminal justice has become more important over the last decade as increasing concern about the accountability of law enforcement and public authorities has prompted ethical questions regarding the actions of those who exercise power over citizens. Criminal Justice Ethics: Theory and Practice provides an overview of the expected standards of behavior and ethical issues that confront those in the various fields of criminal justice. This book takes a sociological approach to criminal justice ethics by emphasizing the social and historical aspects of ethical inquiry. Author Cyndi Banks presents a unique discussion of ethical issues by exploring moral dilemmas faced by professionals in the criminal justice system before examining the major theoretical foundations of ethics. This distinct organization of Criminal Justice Ethics allows readers to understand real-life ethical issues before grappling with philosophical approaches to the resolution of those issues. Key Features Covers the interaction of ethics and the criminal justice system in Part I to lay a practical foundation for applying theoretical methods to the resolution of ethical dilemmas and issues Presents real life case studies that connect ethical theories to moral dilemmas and issues facing criminal justice professionals today Offers an innovative approach to criminal justice policy making by providing a framework that analyzes morality in the policy making process Reviews the codes of ethics for criminal justice professionals that establish the requisite standards of behavior in the different fields of criminal justice Discusses Rawlsa??s theory of justice and the feminist ethic of care, topics not thoroughly addressed in other texts on the subject of criminal justice ethics Criminal Justice Ethics is an up-to-date, comprehensive textbook for undergraduate and graduate students studying ethics in criminal justice. The book is also relevant for many ethics courses in philosophy, sociology, and law and society. To read a sample chapter from Criminal Justice Ethics click on "Additional Materials" in the left column under "About This Book" or simply click here .

Cyndi Banks is Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at Northern Arizona University, where she teaches criminal justice ethics, women in prison, juvenile justice, and gender and justice in comparative perspectives.