Crime & Criminals: Address to the Prisoners in the Cook County Jail & Other Writings on Crime & Punishment

Focusing on the nature of crime and the failures of the US criminal justice system, Darrow's work combines eloquence and humor to critique societal issues. He examines the causes of crime, the disparity in incarceration rates, and the ineffectiveness of punishment, ultimately labeling the justice system as unjust. This edition enriches the original text with a contemporary essay by Leon M Despres, which provides historical context and insights from inmates reflecting on Darrow’s ideas. Additionally, it includes excerpts from Darrow's other writings and an Afterword discussing capital punishment.