Changing LensesA New Focus for Crime and Justice Third edition by Howard Zehr |
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"Maybe some day we'll integrate some of the principles of civil law into criminal justice, as Howard Zehr advises in his book Changing Lenses" - Helen Prejean, C.S.J.
"The author challenges the definitions and assumptions that color our thinking and shape public policy on crime and justice." - CBA Marketplace
Crime victims have many needs, most of which our criminal justice system ignores. In fact, the justice system often increases the injury. Offenders are less ignored by this system, but their real needs—for accountability, for closure, for healing—are also left unaddressed.
Such failures are not accidental, but are inherent in the very definitions and assumptions which govern our thinking about crime and justice. Howard Zehr proposes a "restorative" model which is more consistent with experience, with the past, and with the biblical tradition. Based on the needs of victims and offenders, he takes into account recent studies and biblical principles.
"If you read only one thing on crime and justice issues, read this." - The Mennonite
About the Author
Howard Zehr, Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a writer and consultant on criminal justice issues. He is co-director of the Conflict Transformation Program and a professor of restorative justice at Eastern Mennonite University.