• Professor of Sociology & Criminology, Penn State

I study morality, public opinion, racial attitudes, crime, social control, criminal justice, stigmatization, and patriotism. My past research focused on the relationship between mental disorder and violence, communities and crime, and violence risk assessment. I’ve authored over 70 peer-reviewed articles in high-quality outlets and have received awards for my research. I teach an award-winning course called Knowing Right from Wrong. The course enrolls 700+ students. It promotes ethical development and critical thinking using morally challenging topics. Students are encouraged to share their ideas honestly, respectfully, and courageously, and to keep an open mind as their classmates share theirs. Teaching this course is one of the great joys of my professional life.

Experience

  • –present
    Professor of Sociology & Criminology, Penn State

Education

  • 1999 
    Penn State University, Sociology

Contact Eric for

  • General
  • Media request
  • Speaking request
  • Consulting / Advising
  • Research collaboration
  • Research supervision