This essay provides an overview of the development of criminology, tracing its evolution through different phases, including the classical period, the 19th century, and the late 20th century. It discusses the shift from religious explanations of crime to more scientific and social perspectives. The essay highlights key concepts like classical criminology and the influence of hedonistic principles and rational choice theory on punishment. Furthermore, the essay delves into convict criminology, a controversial perspective that combines the experiences of ex-convicts with scholarly research to offer alternative views on crime and criminal justice. It examines the contributions of convict criminology in critiquing inequalities and understanding the impact of crime on society, referencing important works and research in the field.