Abstract
This paper situates the most influential explanations of prison riots in relation to the problem of order as conceived in social theory. Although it acknowledges that Useem and Kimball's (1989) synthesis of disorganization and deprivation perspectives remains the most sophisticated discussion of prison unrest, it identifies a number of difficulties in their influential work. Taking the problem of legitimacy as its central target, the paper argues that prisons generate diverse forms of social order. In particular, it reveals how the dull compulsion of prison rituals produces an uneasy peace most of the time and argues that while riots are rare events, they do not happen spontaneously, nor are they inevitably caused by administrative disorganization, legitimation crises, or prisoner deprivation.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.