Description
Book SynopsisKathleen Dean Moore begins with a review of the history of thought and practice on the subject of legal pardons, illustrated with a rich and fascinating variety of historical cases. She then addresses many crucial issues surrounding acts of clemency, including what justifies pardoning power, who should be pardoned, and the definition of an unforgivable crime. She carefully analyses the moral justification of pardons, discussing how to distinguish between justifiable, even morally obligatory, cases and unjustifiable abuses of clemency power.
Trade ReviewMoore has made an important contribution to punishment theory in general and to an all too frequently neglected aspect of punishment in particular, namely, the role of the pardon in the criminal justice system. All terms, concepts, and arguments are clearly defined and logically developed. The endnotes, bibliography, and index are excellent. Highly recommended for public and undergraduate libraries. * M.A. Foley, Marywood College, Social and Behavioral Sciences *
