Sociology and Criminology
Punishment and Penology
Module code: L3114
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework
On this module, you’ll critically examine the theory and practice of punishment, with a primary focus on England and Wales and relevant comparisons to other countries, including Europe, North America, and Australasia.
You'll examine different theories about the justifications and purposes of punishment. You’ll then explore a variety of real-world examples, mostly from contemporary times, with some historical cases included
Key topics include:
- justifications for punishment
- different penologies
- contemporary imprisonment
- women in prison
- immigration detention centres
- alternatives to imprisonment
- radical critiques, such as abolitionism.
You’ll explore a range of theoretical approaches to punishment alongside contemporary and historical empirical examples.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of theories of punishment.
- Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of empirical studies of punishment.
- Apply theoretical arguments and penological concepts to empirical examples.
- Assimilate and evaluate evidence from criminological studies of punishment.