Civil Commitment Of Sexual Predators: A Study In Policy Implementation : Book Review

"Civil Commitment of Sexual Predators" by Andrew J. Harris offers a comprehensive and balanced analysis of the controversial practice of civil commitment for individuals convicted of sexual offenses. The book delves into the legal, ethical, and practical aspects of this policy, providing valuable insights and raising thought-provoking questions.

Harris begins by providing an overview of the history and development of civil commitment laws in the United States. He examines the different approaches taken by states in defining and implementing these laws, as well as the challenges in determining who should be subject to civil commitment. The author supports his arguments with case studies and examples, highlighting the complexities and potential pitfalls involved in this practice.

One of the strengths of the book is its exploration of the ethical considerations surrounding civil commitment. Harris examines the delicate balance between protecting society from dangerous offenders and respecting individual rights and due process. He also emphasizes the importance of safeguards to prevent unjust or arbitrary detention and highlights the potential for abuse and misuse of civil commitment laws.

In addition, the book delves into the practical implications of civil commitment, such as the financial costs and logistical challenges of housing and treating committed individuals. It evaluates the effectiveness of treatment programs within civil commitment facilities and assesses the potential for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

Overall, "Civil Commitment of Sexual Predators" provides a thorough examination of a complex and highly debated topic. Harris offers valuable insights into the legal, ethical, and practical implications of civil commitment for sexual offenders. The book's balanced approach and thought-provoking analysis make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of this contentious issue.

What are readers saying?

The book "Civil Commitment of Sexual Predators" written by Andrew J. Harris has received a range of reviews, with some readers praising the book for its comprehensive analysis and thought-provoking content, while others criticize it for being biased and lacking objectivity.

Many reviewers appreciate the book's in-depth coverage of the topic, finding the author's analysis to be thorough and informative. They believe that it provides a deeper understanding of the various issues related to civil commitment. These readers commend the book for addressing the legal, ethical, and social implications of civil commitment, making it a valuable resource particularly for professionals in the field. Furthermore, the author's ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner is also acknowledged.

However, there are reviewers who argue that the book is biased and one-sided. They feel that the author only focuses on a specific perspective, failing to provide a balanced view of the subject. According to these readers, the book lacks objectivity and fails to critically examine different viewpoints. They criticize the author for ignoring counterarguments and presenting a one-sided narrative.

In addition, some reviewers express concerns about the book's readability. They find the writing style to be dense and overly academic, which makes it difficult to engage with the content. These readers suggest that the book could benefit from using more accessible language and a less technical approach, in order to reach a wider audience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers acknowledge the importance of the topic and appreciate the contributions made by the author. They believe that, despite its flaws, the book still provides valuable insights into the field of civil commitment of sexual predators.

CivilCommitment SexualPredators BookReview