Realistic Criminology: Epistemological and methodological dimensions

Abstract

Realistic criminology has a central interest in building a solid bridge between the theoretical field and criminal
policy. Focusing on this guideline, we will try to approach the epistemological starting point of his reflections and the way in
which it connects with the development of critical thinking based on experience. We will explore this cartography under the guidance of Roger Matthews, a leading social scientist whose work has actively contributed to the renewal of criminology. At the end of our route we will be able to appreciate how critical realism dynamically assumed an identity based on the commitment to design public policies responsive to citizen’s demands, affirmed on a consistent theoretical basis, adapted to the specific circumstances of the territory to which they apply and, above all, factually realizable.