Contemporary Statecraft and the Punitive Obsession: A Critique of the New Penology Thesis (From New Punitiveness: Trends, Theories, and Perspectives, P 101-118, 2005, John Pratt, David Brown, et al., eds. -- See NCJ-210217)

• NCJ Number: 210223
• Author(s): Roy Coleman; Joe Sim
• Date Published: 2005
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: Willan Publishing
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In examining contemporary crime control and its rationale and effectivity in the United Kingdom, this paper recognizes the theoretical contribution that has resulted from the new penology thesis, as well as its weaknesses.

Abstract

In exploring the influence of the new penology on theoretical criminology, this paper utilizes data from a case study concerning the strategies of punishment and social control currently deployed in Liverpool in the 21st century. First, it offers critical reflections on contemporary crime control and punishment that have been influenced by, or are aligned with, the new penology thesis. Then, it uses developments in the processes of city rule in Liverpool to argue for a more materialist analysis of contemporary mechanisms of crime control. Lastly, a conclusion is rendered that considers the theoretical and political implications of the analysis for understanding the future contours of crime control. Notes, references