Prisons and Punishment

Prisons and Punishment provides a critical overview of the main debates and dilemmas associated with prisons, imprisonment, and punishment. It acquaints readers with the most interesting and influential literature that has shaped the field internationally. This reference collection is particularly timely because of the exponentially growing prison populations in many countries, creating a crisis in their penal systems. Volume 1: The Meaning of the Prison ' outlines the emergence of the modern prison and explores differing contemporary models of imprisonment in various parts of the world. It examines prisons in market societies, covering recent moves towards increasing managerialism and greater accountability. Volume 2: Prisoners and Prison Communities ' explores the pervasive characteristics and 'effects' of imprisonment from sociological and psychological perspectives. It discusses life in prison for all its occupants and explores the relationships between prisoners and prison staff. Volume 3: Punishment: Controversial Issues and Emerging Debates ' looks at some of the most controversial issues and problems blighting prison systems around the world, including human rights issues and arguments for the abolition of prisons. It discusses alternatives to imprisonment and the notion of a 'carceral society'.