This book explores how prison life is normalized in different countries, with a critical and detailed look at 'Scandinavian exceptionalism' the idea that Scandinavian prisons have exceptionally humane conditions and compares these prisons to ones in Belgium. It provides a more nuanced, systematic and contextualized comparison of normalization in two countries. Through analyzing policy and legislative documents, participant observation and interviews, it seeks to understand how normalization is implemented differently in prison legislation, policies and practices and compares the two societies for context. It also considers the material prison environment, security, the social environment and the use of time in prison. It provides insights into how normalization can be successfully and holistically implemented in both policy and practice, to contribute to a more 'pure' form of liberty deprivation as punishment without too many unintended effects.

Discusses whether 'exceptional prisons' exist only in 'exceptional societies' Presents rich empirical findings, reflection and discussion Offers direct insights for prison policies and practices

Autorentext

Helene De Vos is an affiliated senior researcher at KU Leuven, Belgium, and the executive director of RESCALED. She is particularly interested in comparative prison research and the relationship between prison policies, legislation and practice.

Inhalt

Chapter 1. Introduction.- Chapter 2. Normal, Normality & Normalization: Towards A Context-Based Analysis.- Chapter 3.Same Principle, Different Logics.- Chapter 4. Abnormal Kitchen Knives. Creating The Material Conditions For Normal Prison Life.- Chapter 5. Security And Normalization: A Double Balancing Act.- Chapter 6. Emancipation Versus Forced Social Education: Normalizing The Social Dimension In Prison.- Chapter 7. From Killing Time To Using Time: Normalizing The Time-Use In Prison.- Chapter 8. Normalization, Punishment & Exceptionalism: What Do Normalized Prison Conditions Teach Us About Societies?.