Course

Understanding crime and punishment in America is a difficult and complex task, involving the disciplines of sociology, criminology, economics, psychology, politics, and even brain science. The purpose of this course is to employ philosophy—and more specifically, ethics—to clarify our thinking about how we punish criminals in America.

There are currently about two million people incarcerated in jails and prisons in the United States. What moral issues are embedded in this grim fact? What constitutes a moral response to crime? What is the justification for punishment, and what are the moral criteria for a just punishment? Are individuals entirely—or only partially—responsible for their crimes?

In this course we will discuss these issues as they pertain to contemporary America. The class will be about 50% presentation (lectures and video clips) and 50% discussion. There will be some very short readings and two film viewings assigned outside of class.

Bill Smoot received his Ph.D. in philosophy from Northwestern University, specializing in existentialism and ethics. A lifelong teacher, he has taught for the past decade at Mount Tamalpais College (formerly the Prison University Project) at San Quentin Prison.

This is an In-Person-Only Course

• Classes will be held in person at Golden Bear Center, 1995 University Ave., Suite 365.
• Course materials will remain available enjoy in the Member Dashboard through May 31.
• Fee assistance is available if cost is a barrier. Learn more.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Wednesday, April 5 and ends on Wednesday, May 10.
• Classes meet for six weeks, two hours per session.