Chapter 3 Chapter Summary

This chapter draws our attention to the fact that the criminal justice system is a human enterprise that responds to criminal justice matters with a wide array of responses. These differences are expected, since Canada is such a diverse and multicultural country. The six main crime control philosophies are presented, followed by a discussion about the reasons for such considerable disagreement on how to approach the problem of crime in Canada. These six philosophies shape the operations of the police, courts, and corrections (and ultimately shape how the justice system treats the public and offenders). A careful blending of a number of these approaches in response to the crime problem needs to take place and public opinion and priorities have to be considered in this process.

The chapter provides us again with information on how violent crime is on the decline in Canada (which would suggest that strategies employed have been effective) but public attitudes still show a desire to be tough on crime and criminals. However, changes in the public’s attitudes happen slowly, and are linked to our confidence in rehabilitating offenders, the influence of the media as well as the messages that we receive from politicians and policy makers. It is important to understand the various crime control philosophies, as they shape the ways that we treat offenders today. We need to work toward achieving a balance between holding offenders accountable and protecting societal interests. The best way to do this is to have crime-reduction strategies that are basedon evidence-based practices.

Finally, the chapter brings to our attention the overrepresentation of Aboriginals in the criminal justice system. It is difficult to explain why disparities (like possible biased treatment, a high involvement in street crime, a history of discrimination and marginalization) occur, but working to reduce this overrepresentation is a Canadian justice priority. As noted throughout the chapter, given the failure of traditional approaches to controlling crime, the best solutions might lie outside the justice system and require new ways of looking at justice. We need to address economic issues (such as poverty, inequality, and homelessness), our prejudices towards the poor and marginalized, and our stereotypes (of people who are different from us) before we can “fix” individuals in our criminal justice system.