Sentencing, Imprisonment and Social Inequality

• • • Sentencing.
  • • Courts.
  • • Imprisonment.
  • • Social inequality.
  • • Abolition.

Others

Past La Trobe University students who have previously completed LST2PIC (Punishment In Context), or LST3PIC (Punishment In Context) are ineligible to enrol in this subject. Pre-requisites: Students must be admitted into AB002O and have completed 15 credit points of LST coded subjects.

Additional requirements

No additional requirements

This subject explores the processes, practices and complexities involved in sentencing and imprisoning people in contemporary Australia and how these reflect and reproduce forms of social inequality. The aims of sentencing, the technical processes involved, and public perceptions of them are considered and assessed, as well as technological innovations and human experiences in the courtroom. Varying types of sanctions are examined with particular attention paid to current issues in imprisonment, including high rates of remand, prison architecture, and private interests in prison operations and expansion. The subject places Australian penal cultures in international context, and assesses the extent to which imprisonment can reduce cycles of crime and social disadvantage, and enhance community safety.

• One group presentation and peer marking exercise (equivalent to 800 words). (20%)
• Online Quizzes (equivalent to 800 words). (20%)
• Two in-class case study exercises (equivalent to 800 words). (20%)
• One 1600 word research essay. (40%)

For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).