NCJ Number
112227
Journal
Criminal Justice Ethics Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter-Spring 1988) Pages: 35-47
Date Published
1988
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This analysis of methods for classification of criminals and prediction of criminality argues that these devices are not totally objective, because all statistical procedures necessarily rest on subjective elements that can dramatically affect the numbers produced.
Abstract
Social scientists with an objectivist perspective argue that the use of the analytical methods of statistics permits research to be conducted in a value-free manner. However, statisticians are aware that subjective factors are inherent in their statistical procedures. Although serious efforts must be made to be objective, it is vital to acknowledge fully the impact of those subjective elements that remain. Recommendations for ways to improve quantitative analysis, 1 table, and 41 reference notes.