In this book, Andrew Skotnicki argues that the criminal justice system can only be rehabilitated by eliminating punishment and policies based upon deterrence, rehabilitation, and the incapacitation of the urban poor and returning to the original justification for the practice of confinement: conversion.
Exploring the historical influence of the Catholic Church on criminal justice, this book argues for a coherent theory that aligns with biblical teachings and Catholic social thought. It acknowledges past abuses while highlighting the potential for a just legal framework rooted in tradition and contemporary values. Through this analysis, the text aims to reconcile historical practices with modern ethical considerations, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of faith and justice.
The book explores the development of penitentiaries and reformatories in Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts from 1820 to 1913, highlighting the significant impact of the American religious community on the penal system. It emphasizes the contributions of prison chaplains and utilizes primary source materials to assess how religious beliefs shaped the evolution of these institutions. The author argues that this transformation was not merely a historical trend but deeply intertwined with theological influences.
Challenging the obsession with law and violence in contemporary culture, this book urges Christians to embrace the teachings of Jesus, who advocated for love over judgment. It explores the historical context of Christianity, highlighting how early believers adhered to the principles against punitive judgment. The narrative reveals how the emergence of legal codes and dualistic philosophy created a rift between personal spirituality and public morality, leading to a reliance on sanctioned violence rather than altruistic love.
The Politics of Sanity
The book explores the disproportionate incarceration of mentally ill, often impoverished people of color in the UK and US, framing it as a "persecution of the prophetic" within the criminal justice system. By integrating insights from various disciplines such as criminology, theology, and sociology, it addresses the complex issue of mass incarceration. The author advocates for penal reform as a life-affirming endeavor, emphasizing the dignity and spiritual potential of those labeled as mentally unstable.