Description
Book SynopsisFirst published in 1958, "Society of Captives" contained a study of the maximum security prison, which questioned the extent to which prisons can succeed in their attempts to control every facet of life. Featuring a new introduction by Bruce Western, this title aims to serve as a text for those coming to terms with the nature of modern power.
Trade ReviewPraise for Princeton's original edition: "[A] remarkable study by a scrupulously honest, non-captive observer of the real meaning of captivity."--C. H. Rolph, New Statesman "Sykes's perspective simultaneously on all parties in the prison's social system is unique, and his interpretation is profound."--Daniel Galaser, American Journal of Sociology "The book should be read by all who are interested in, or dealing with, those convicted of crimes. No ready solution is offered, but the problems are brought forth forcefully."--Psychiatric Quarterly
Table of ContentsIntroduction to the Princeton Classic Edition ix Preface xxvii Introduction xxix Chapter One: The Prison and Its Setting 3 Chapter Two: The Regime of the Custodians 13 Chapter Three: The Defects of Total Power 40 Chapter Four: The Pains of Imprisonment 63 Chapter Five: Argot Roles 84 Chapter Six: Crisis and Equilibrium 109 Chapter Seven: A Postscript for Reformers 130 Epilogue: The Structural-Functional Perspective on Imprisonment 135 Appendix A: A Note on Method 147 Appendix B: The Routine of Imprisonment 149 Index 157
