The Politics of Prison (980M3)
The Politics of Prison
Module 980M3
Module details for 2026/27.
30 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
This module provides a comprehensive analysis of the issue of prison overcrowding, which impacts many jurisdictions and represents one of the most consolidated penal strategies worldwide. It critically examines both the theoretical and practical dimensions of prison congestion, drawing on insights from a wide range of academic literature. By situating overcrowding within a historical and comparative framework, the module explores how socio-political forces (such as neoliberal policies, punitive justice paradigms, border control measures, law-and-order legislation, systemic inequalities, etcetera) have contributed to the expansion of imprisonment and the strategic use of prison overcapacity as a tool for managing punishment. By the end of this module, students will be able to critically engage with and apply key theoretical frameworks related to punishment. They will evaluate the socio-political forces contributing to prison congestion and analyse how theories of neoliberalism, punitive justice, and social inequality intersect with the practical realities of penal governance. Students will assess state strategies for addressing overcrowding, including short-term interventions, legislative changes, and policy reforms. Through the analysis of empirical research, students will engage in ongoing debates about the ethical and political implications of overcrowded prisons. By doing so, they will also explore the impact of overcrowding on the legitimacy of prisons as a form of punishment, analysing the broader impacts on inmates, their families, and communities. The course employs a multidisciplinary approach, examining the consequences of overcrowding for public health, social justice, and community well-being. Additionally, it highlights the intersectionality of race, class, and gender in shaping experiences within these environments. The module concludes with a critical discussion on whether systemic overcrowding represents a policy failure or an intentional strategy within penal governance. Students will be encouraged to consider alternative justice models as long-term solutions to these pressing issues. Additionally, they will gain the ability to synthesise theoretical perspectives with empirical research to assess the ethical implications of overcrowding and develop informed arguments regarding criminal justice reform and alternatives to prison.
Module learning outcomes
Analyse the evolution of prison systems and the sociopolitical factors contributing to prison overcrowding across different regions
Assess the impact of various criminal justice laws and policies on prison populations, including sentencing practices, parole systems, and rehabilitation programs
Investigate how prison overcrowding affects not only incarcerated individuals but also their families, communities, and the broader societal landscape
Gain the ability to synthesise theoretical perspectives with empirical research to assess the ethical implications of overcrowding and develop informed arguments regarding criminal justice reform and alternatives to prison
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio (5000 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Mon 16:00 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 3 hours | 111111111110 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Simone Santorso
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/557266
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.