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Summary

Liu, James H (2007). Social and Historical Contexts for Restorative and Retributive Justice: Te Ao Po - Te Ao Marama (Worlds of Dark and Light) In Gabrielle Maxwell and James H. Liu, ed., Restorative Justice and Practices in New Zealand: Towards a Restorative Society. Wellington, NZ: Institute of Policy Studies, Pp. 29-39.

"In chapter 2, James Liu explores the tensions between the desire for revenge and the desire for building inclusive societies. He places this exploration in the context of New Zealand society; a society full of contradictory elements. He examines the tension that results between the desire for accountability and retribution and the desire for healing, forgiveness and the restoration of harmony when there has been a breach of the social contract. Continual calls for naming, blaming and shaming offenders and the growing emphasis on incarceration reflect the extent to which people feel unsafe in a society becoming increasingly culturally diverse and economically stressful. This pattern conflicts with the alternative ethic presented in this book that stresses non-violence, respect for others and building communitiies of care that can support and reintegrate people who have offended." (abstract)

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