In this course we will examine the development and application of a number of theories of punishment, especially liberal and utilitarian theories developed in the 18th century. Our theoretical examination will lead us to consider the social, economic and ethical implications of different attitudes toward and understandings of punishment. We will also investigate the concrete expression of these theories of punishment in the form of large-scale institutions. These institutions include (among others) the transatlantic slave trade, penal colonies, prisons, penology, residential schools, asylums and the police. The course will be guided by a few broad, but fundamental questions including: who (or what) should be punished, how should they be punished and (most fundamentally) why?
