NCJ Number
1801
Date Published
1967
Length
130 pages
Annotation
Discusses basic dilemmas inherent in criminology and problems faced by individuals trying to make sense of the causes and treatment of antisocial behavior.
Abstract
In logic, dilemma refers to an argument in which an opponent is faced with two alternatives, both of which will be conclusive against him. By extension, it can refer to any situation in which the possibilities of action or argument are equally unattractive. Professor Savitz applies the more precise definition to situations involving choice among possible courses of action. According to the author, dilemmas are situations which require choosing a course of action from among several unsatisfactory alternatives, none of which is demonstrably superior to any of the others. He presents a number of problems which involve equally unsatisfactory alternatives. Some involve conflicting contemporary practices, orientations, or values, and for these the author describes the alternative decisions that could be made and the limitations of each.