This thoughtful collection of original work by eminent sociologists and criminologists was compiled to honor Henry D. McKay, the pioneer investigator and collaborator with Clifford R. Shaw. Among the traditions most basic to both continuity and change in criminological research and theory, one of the most important is that associated with Shaw and McKay and the "Chicago school" of urban sociology. So great has been its impact that even the most recent theoretical formulations draw upon it for support or in criticism. Reassessing the "Shaw and McKay tradition," the contributors to this volume pursue critical and emerging issues in the study of crime and delinquency.

In Latin America, recent years have seen an unprecedented rise in the number of people forced to flee from their homes due to the activities of organised criminal groups. What are the reasons behind this emerging crisis of forced displacement in the Americas? Who are these criminal groups and how do they operate in Central America, Mexico and Colombia? Who are the victims and how can their needs be met in these violent and insecure contexts? Can law and policy offer a humanitarian response to this crisis? As the first book to deal with this rapidly evolving phenomenon, this innovative collection offers a range of fresh perspectives from leading experts working across Latin America.