Reconceptualising Penality

Examining penal policies in Ireland, Scotland, and New Zealand, the book challenges the notion of a universally harsher punitive era in criminal justice. Hamilton critiques current methods used by criminologists to measure punitiveness, arguing for a more nuanced understanding that considers the unique contexts of smaller jurisdictions. Through empirical data, the study reveals significant variations in criminal justice approaches, highlighting the importance of localized perspectives in shaping penal policies.