The Stains of Imprisonment: Moral Communication and Men Convicted of Sex Offenses

The Stains of Imprisonment is an ethnographic account of an English prison for men convicted of sex offenses, which examines how prisons are morally communicative institutions, instilling in prisoners particular ideas about the offenses they have committed. It found that the prison communicated a pervasive sense of disgust and shame, discouraging prisoners from engaging in serious moral reflection on the harms they had caused.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

The Stains of Imprisonment is a groundbreaking ethnographic study that delves into the world of an English prison for men convicted of sex offenses. This book explores the profound moral implications that prisons have on the individuals they incarcerate, revealing how they function as morally communicative institutions that shape prisoners' understanding of their offenses and their moral character. Through meticulous analysis of the everyday processes and practices that constitute life in custody, the author uncovers a pervasive sense of disgust and shame that pervades the prison environment. This message not only hinders prisoners from taking responsibility for their actions but also discourages them from engaging in deep moral reflection on the harm they have caused.

The Stains of Imprisonment raises important questions about the role of imprisonment in responding to sexual harm. While it may provide a sense of protection and safety for survivors, it also perpetuates a cycle of violence and injustice. The book challenges us to consider alternative approaches to addressing sexual violence, such as prevention, treatment, and support for survivors. It also highlights the need for reform in the criminal justice system, including the decriminalization of certain sexual behaviors and the prioritization of victim-centered approaches to justice.

In conclusion, The Stains of Imprisonment is a thought-provoking and important book that sheds light on the moral implications of imprisonment for individuals convicted of sex offenses. It provides a powerful critique of the criminal justice system and calls for a more compassionate and effective response to sexual harm. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our criminal justice system and the impact it has on the lives of those it incarcerates.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520383715