Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 152 | Charis Kubrin on Criminology, Incarceration, and Hip-Hop
Jun 21, 2021
Charis Kubrin, a Professor of Criminology at UC Irvine, dives into the complexities of the U.S. incarceration system and the controversial use of rap lyrics in court. She explores how hip-hop reflects societal issues and biases that influence legal outcomes, especially against aspiring rappers. The conversation touches on mass incarceration's troubling statistics, the intersection of wealth and justice, and the deeper social commentary embedded in hip-hop culture. Kubrin emphasizes the need for reform and understanding of artistic expression within the justice system.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
US Incarceration Rates
- The United States has the highest incarceration rate globally, surpassing even repressive dictatorships.
- This mass incarceration is largely a state-level issue, driven by harsh sentencing practices.
Causes of Mass Incarceration
- Mass incarceration stems from excessively long sentences and a wide range of punishable offenses.
- Policies like mandatory sentencing and truth in sentencing contribute to lengthy prison terms.
Juvenile Life Sentences
- The Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of allowing life sentences without parole for juvenile offenders.
- This decision contrasts with the juvenile justice system's focus on rehabilitation due to developmental differences.
