Abstract

To present a truly ‘global perspective’ on any given topic is of course an extremely challenging proposition, not least on a subject like victimology where the subject matter, proper and/or realistic scope and aims are all the subject of some debate in both academic and policy-making circles. Furthermore, whilst the study of victims and victimisation is often still labelled a ‘new’ or ‘emerging’ field, in fact the history of victimology now traces back some 60 years. Assuming that it is even possible to present a truly ‘global’ perspective on such a subject, it can be safely admitted that offering anything like a ‘comprehensive’ account is not.