Module Four Outline
Introduction to Criminal Justice (CRJ 101)
Classroom Version
Introduction – Aside from the textbook, this document contains all the information for the
final four weeks of this course. If there is additional information, you will be directed to
it below and generally that information will be on the Angel course site. This module
will cover the topics of Belief in a Just World, vigilantism, and some aspects of the death
penalty.
Checklist – At the end of this module, you should have accomplished the following:
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Followed and completed the tasks on the lecture outline for this module
including the readings that are hyperlinks below or on the course site.
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Read the text book chapters 13, 14, 15, and 16.
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Completed the SAFMEDS cards for this module.
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If assigned, you have completed your presentation to the class.
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You have completed the Module examination.
Lecture Outline
Module
Introduction to Criminal Justice (CRJ 101)
Belief in a just world (BJW) also known as the
Just world phenomenon
Just world fallacy
Just world effect
BJW was developed by Melvin Lerner in 1966 in studies regarding observer reaction to
innocent victims: Compassion or rejection?
BJW is a search for reasons the victim deserved the misfortune, a way to blame the
victim and as a result, see the world as a just place.
Examples –
oLung cancer
oMotor vehicle deaths
oHIV
oKatrina victims
BJW and victim behavior. The carjacking scenario.
The scenario described a Friday night in which a 19-year-old male college
student, named Jim, went to a local pool hall to meet some friends. Upon arrival,
he called his friends outside to look at his new car. The car had several expensive
features such as chrome wheels and a sound system. On the way home that night,
the young man noticed another car following him at a close distance. While
