About the Book
The Real Pain of Punishment explores carceral harm through the lens of the fundamental human need to belong. It examines how recognizing belonging in the carceral context can reshape thresholds of prison legitimacy, from sentencing severity to the (in)humanity of prison conditions. The final chapter, co-authored with scholars currently and formerly incarcerated in a New York State facility, reflects on how embracing belonging can inform responses to harm grounded in humanization, proximity, empowerment, and collaboration. Ultimately, the book calls for deeper epistemic dialogue in legal discourse on crime, punishment, and justice.
About the Event
The event brings together the author and co-authors to discuss key themes of the book, followed by a moderated conversation with invited commentators and an open discussion with the audience. The event is co-hosted with the Center for Justice at Columbia University.
Speakers
Author & Co-authors
Federica Coppola; Mujahideen Muhammad; Salahuddin Tayden Townsley; Paul V. Cortez; Raymond A. Wallace, Jr.; Michael Shane Hale.
*Co-authors Salahuddin Tayden Townsley; Paul V. Cortez; Raymond A. Wallace, Jr.; Michael Shane Hale will join remotely.
Commentators
Alice Ristroph; Steven Zeidman; Adam Kolber
Chair & Moderator
Susan Sturm
A reception will follow.