An increasing number of citizens are coming in contact with the criminal justice system, a fact that is shaping how citizens participate in the political process and their political voice.
The American Political Science Review published a study, “Political Consequences of the Carceral State,” by Vesla M. Weaver and Amy E. Lerman, of Virginia and Princeton universities respectively, which expressed strong belief that America has become a carceral state, which is instrumental in influencing how citizens view their government.
As a carceral state, many citizens find that their only connection to government is through contact with the courts, police and prison. A 1977 study found that most offenders who were formerly incarcerated have only dealt with the political system through criminal justice venues. These venues include, but are not limited to, halfway houses, probation and parole offices and some employment opportunities. Penal institutions provide healthcare and education.
Jennifer Lawless and Richard Fox completed a study in the South Bronx in which one of their respondents said, “In cities like this … most people have their only real contact with government in hostile confrontations with the police.”
Although the study covered many aspects concerning the effects of the carceral state, the main focus of the study was the effect it had on the people.
A substantial portion of the population is adversely affected by what they view as a government that has misrepresented them. As these perceptions become real in the minds of the people, the study showed that criminal behavior became more prevalent.
Sociologist and author Tom Tyler has written exclusively on the subject of procedural justice. Tyler’s theory on the procedural justice model is: In order for citizens to believe in the government and the judicial process, it is essential that their voices be heard, that they have trust in government authorities, that they are treated with dignity and respect and that the forums in which their opposing issues are heard show impartiality.
This depiction of civic engagement clearly shows that the more contact with the criminal justice system, the more likely political engagement will be diminished. The cause and effect of a carceral state threatens the moral fiber of the United States, the report contends.
The United States was founded on successful cohabitation and shared responsibility. The carceral state is a polarizing element in which cohesive living becomes less likely to develop, said the report.