Social Thought & Polic. Econ 492H - STPEC Focus Seminar II

STPEC students only STPEC 391H Title: Abolition: Theory and Practice in the Massachusetts Criminal Justice System. Abolitionist movements evolve in both academic contexts and on the ground in courthouses, prisons, and grassroots organizing. However, the work done in developing new theories and the work done in localized community settings rarely intersect. In this class, we will examine the criminal justice system in Massachusetts through lenses of theory and practice, and envision ways to grow synchronicity between these two necessary arms of abolition movements. Coursework will include readings in abolitionist theories, transformative justice, histories and recent research of the criminal justice system and policing in Massachusetts, local resistance campaigns, and topical case law, as well as in-person observation in courthouses.