Contrasts and concepts: considering the development of comparative criminology

This chapter examines David Downes' contribution, through both Contrasts in Tolerance and his earlier paper to comparative criminology, especially in the context of the recent wave of studies. He stated that instructive comparisons of criminal justice policies have a long history. Contrasts offers a model case study despite the author's modesty about his achievement. It is also used as a link to study and evaluate the burgeoning range of work on comparative criminology and criminal justice. Discussion on the creation of taxonomy is provided. It is noted that Downes allowed himself some optimism about the Dutch penal model and its scope for transfer; today that system is seemingly in ruins, but the scope for conducting comparative criminological studies has never been greater.