MPhil Sociology - Criminal Justice, Social Harms and Inequalities in Durham United Kingdom | Durham University

Our conceptions of crime and justice both shape and mirror the societies we inhabit, simultaneously creating and sustaining systems that perpetuate harm and inequality. Modern criminal justice systems function within environments marked by: ongoing budget cuts, growing societal recognition of systemic disparities, and divisive viewpoints that tend to either blame individuals or consider broader social contexts for criminal behavior.
Scholars in the Criminal Justice, Social Harm and Inequalities Research Group investigate the disruptions caused by justice systems in people's lives and communities, while critically analyzing the frameworks, norms, and procedures that either worsen or alleviate these effects through:

Developing theories, analyzing, and envisioning new approaches to different aspects of justice systems
Employing innovative, inclusive, and collaborative research methods to amplify frequently silenced perspectives
Challenging conventional definitions of crime and examining how criminalization occurs when evaluating justice system ethics
Creating research-based, practical solutions developed with stakeholders to enhance results for individuals, families, and communities affected by justice systems
Examining justice systems as part of interconnected networks involving social services, healthcare, and education