The increasingly important topic of comparative criminal justice is examined from an original and insightful perspective by one of the top scholars in the field. Addressing the need for a globalized criminology, David Nelken looks at why we should study crime and criminal justice in a comparative and international context, and the difficulties we encounter when we do.Evaluating 'global' trends in crime, risk and security, the book explores:" to what extent criminal justice systems are, or should be, similar" how to understand the social and political sources of national criminal justice practices" how to learn from ideas and practices in other jurisdictions" theoretical and methodological challenges" international co-operation in terms of responding to transnational crime, such as terrorism" the role of the state" the place of the victim.The book draws upon the author's experience of working in a number of settings around the world. A range of case studies are included to illustrate the discussion, covering areas such as white collar crime, juvenile delinquency and organized crime. Students and academics in criminology and criminal justice will find this book an invaluable resource.