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- Showing 2 posts filed under: Theory [–] published between Dec 01, 2010 and Dec 31, 2010 [Show all]
Circling self-interest and democracy
reviewed by Dan Van Ness
Lode Walgrave begins his exceptional 2008 book Restorative Justice, Self-interest and Responsible Citizenship like many writers on restorative justice. He reviews the ancient and recent history of restorative approaches, proposes and explains a definition of restorative justice, and outlines various restorative schemes. He then contrasts restorative approaches from contemporary criminal practice and identifies ways in which the former resolves practical and ethical problems of the latter.
The person who crosses this familiar territory with Lode is well rewarded because he writes with analytical precision, a scholar’s restraint, and the passion of someone with conviction. He has much to say that is worth hearing. He once again explains clearly why he favours a maximalist definition of restorative justice, one that is not limited to deliberative schemes but which applies only to harm caused by crime. He carefully and thoroughly builds his case against punishment and against restorative justice being considered an alternative punishment rather than an alternative to punishment.
Dec 22, 2010 Definition, Theory, Correspondent:Dan Van Ness, Distinguishing, Conceptual, Circle
From international to the interpersonal: A restorative look at Human Rights conflict
From the paper by Josh Davidson and Janelle Gilbert from IIRP's 13th World Conference:
As restorative practices have proven effective in many fields, including education, criminal justice, interpersonal psychology, and social work, there is reason to believe that such methods would be of value on a more international level, particularly with regard to human rights. All across the globe one can witness the tension that exists between promoting greater, more universal human rights and securing the traditions and values of given cultures. Both are worthy objectives, and it is wrong to think that universal human rights and cultural identity cannot coexist. Restorative practices, and especially the questioning that is such an integral part of the process, can serve as practical tools in creating a better understanding of the relationship between human rights and cultural appreciation, and in creating a greater transnational dialogue on how to cope with such important issues.
