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Comparing juvenile justice systems: towards a qualitative research project in East Asia
This paper contrasts the assumptions and methods used by quantitative criminologists with the approach to comparison pursued by the interpretive tradition in sociology. Whereas quantitative studies tend to conceal distinctive legislative or institutional responses in particular countries, interpretive studies make it possible to address internal debates about policy issues, as well as how practitioners exercise professional judgement. The paper considers a variety of ways in which the interpretive traditions of symbolic interactionism and ethnomethodology have approached comparison. It also considers the conceptual and practical issues that might arise in conducting a qualitative comparative study about juvenile justice within East Asia focusing on Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. Whereas quantitative studies tend to ask questions that interest Western researchers, interpretivism makes possible a dialogue between countries that have different institutions, philosophies and cultures.
History
Publication title
Asian Journal of CriminologyVolume
8Pagination
115-128ISSN
1871-014XDepartment/School
School of Social SciencesPublisher
SpringerPlace of publication
New YorkRights statement
Copyright 2012 Springer Science+Business Media DordrechtRepository Status
- Restricted