Principles of Criminal Law introduces readers to a broader and deeper understanding of criminal law through a study of the principles and policies underlying it. Exploring the major spheres of criminal liability, the book raises questions about the proper limits of the criminal law, the relative seriousness of harms, the various principles grounded in fairness to individuals, policies designed to further the aims of criminal law, and ideas of criminal culpability. In an area of law becoming larger and more complex each year, this invaluable study provides a sharp focus upon the structure of the criminal law, the reasons behind it, and the context in which it operates.