A Theory of Relational Justice: Asian Criminology’s Approach to Decolonizing Criminology

Abstract

The criminal justice discipline has its roots in the institutions of criminal justice and policy, predominantly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. This field has generated a substantial body of work encompassing observational, descriptive, and evaluation studies, as well as mini-theories that offer limited generalizations. The diverse nature of these studies spans various topics, institutions, and localities, contributing to a fragmented body of knowledge with limited scope. This diversity poses a significant challenge for theorists who seek to synthesize these varied descriptive and evaluation studies into a cohesive and unified explanation that addresses each critical aspect of criminal justice comprehensively. This paper aims to explore the origins and development of the criminal justice discipline, highlighting the breadth of research and theoretical frameworks that have emerged. It will examine the inherent challenges in integrating these diverse studies and propose potential methodologies for achieving a unified theoretical framework. The goal is to enhance the applicability and generalizability of criminal justice theories, thereby contributing to a more cohesive understanding of criminal justice processes and policies across different contexts and regions.