In their new book, "True Criminology," sociologists and criminology experts Nicole Bögelein and Gina Rosa Wollinger draw upon their extensive research and discussions from their successful podcast, addressing crucial questions about crime in society. They delve into the societal factors that contribute to criminal behavior, examining whether crime is inherently linked to masculinity and how both poverty and wealth shape criminal activities. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding these dynamics to gain a clearer view of the true nature of crime beyond sensationalized portrayals.

A notable distinction made by the authors lies between the 'true crime' genre and the realities of actual crime. Wollinger highlights that the popular true crime genre often presents a distorted view, focusing on sensationalized and extreme cases, which diverges from the systemic issues faced in real-world criminality. Bögelein argues that this focus on dramatic individual cases can perpetuate misunderstandings about the nature and causes of crime, suggesting that the public's engagement with criminal narratives needs to be more informed and nuanced.

By translating their podcast discussions into a published format, Bögelein and Wollinger aim to educate a broader audience about the fallacies surrounding popular crime narratives and to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, and gendered underpinnings of criminal behavior. This work not only contributes to academic discourse but also seeks to shape public perception and policy regarding crime and prevention, encouraging a critical examination of what constitutes real criminality in society.