What Is a Criminal?: Answers From Inside the US Justice System

What Is a Criminal? is a collection of essays that explore the category of criminal through the human stories of those who bear and administer that label. It brings together the perspectives of justice-impacted people, those who work in law enforcement and social services, and scholarly researchers, with each chapter providing a compelling narrative sharing the experience and perspective of a unique person with knowledge of the justice system. The book is designed for a general audience and is an effective text for college and high school courses about crime and criminality, as well as for discussion in law enforcement and social services training programs or professional development workshops.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

What Is a Criminal? is a groundbreaking collection of essays that delves into the complex and multifaceted concept of criminality, drawing from a diverse range of perspectives. The book brings together writers with personal experiences in the US criminal justice system, including those who have served time in prison and worked as law enforcement officers, alongside scholarly researchers who have studied the field extensively. Through a series of compelling narratives, the book explores the human stories behind the label of "criminal," shedding light on the experiences, challenges, and complexities of those who bear this designation.

The first section of the book, titled "Incarceration, Reentry, and Rebuilding," provides a deep insight into the world of prison, offering firsthand accounts of daily life on the inside and the struggles faced by individuals upon their release. The authors vividly describe the harsh realities of incarceration, including the overcrowding, lack of resources, and the challenges of reintegrating into society. They also highlight the resilience and determination of those who have overcome these obstacles, striving to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

The second section, titled "Journeys in Law Enforcement," presents perspectives from police officers, school resource officers, and corrections officers who are working tirelessly to improve their communities. The authors share their experiences and insights into the challenges they face in their roles, as well as their efforts to build trust and collaborate with the communities they serve. They discuss the importance of empathy, understanding, and effective communication in law enforcement, and how these qualities can help to reduce crime and promote positive change.

The third section, titled "Ripple Effects," explores the broader impacts of the criminal justice system on individuals and communities. The authors examine the experiences of children of incarcerated parents, individuals who have been profiled or discriminated against based on their race or ethnicity, and undocumented immigrants who face legal and social barriers. They shed light on the emotional toll that these experiences can have on individuals and the challenges they face in navigating the justice system.

The final section, titled "Scholarly Perspectives," comprises accessible articles by academics who study law and crime. The authors offer scholarly insights into the nature of criminality, the causes of crime, and the effectiveness of different criminal justice policies and practices. They discuss the role of social factors, such as poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, in perpetuating criminality, as well as the potential for rehabilitation and reintegration.

What Is a Criminal? is a highly valuable resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of criminality, the US criminal justice system, and the people involved in it. The book is designed for a general audience, with accessible and compelling stories that will appeal to a wide range of readers. The authors' use of personal anecdotes and scholarly research creates a nuanced and comprehensive view of the justice system, challenging preconceptions and promoting empathy and understanding.

In conclusion, What Is a Criminal? is a groundbreaking collection of essays that offers a unique and comprehensive perspective on criminality and the US criminal justice system. Through the compelling narratives and scholarly insights presented in the book, readers gain a deeper understanding of the human stories behind the label of "criminal," challenging preconceptions and promoting empathy and understanding. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of these complex issues and the people who are affected by them.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 234 x 155 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367770273