THE PSYCHOLOGY OF THE CRIMINAL ACT AND PUNISHMENT

by ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 14, 1954

The second Isaac Ray Award Book (and far more stimulating than the first), this is again an examination of the contradiction, confusion, and often hostility which co-exists between psychiatry and the law and attempts to effect a closer cooperation. The deterrent effect of punishment -- to frighten man into goodness-which can never succeed; transgression, and the unpredictable-often undetectable pattern of aggression which underlies it; the concept, or rather misconception, of quick justice- which is too often only the spirit of revenge- as it influences the juror; the dubious practical value of punishment which increases the hostility of the criminal; the limitations imposed on the psychiatrist in the courtroom- which invalidates his contribution--- all this is part of the direct debate which began 100 years ago when Isaac Ray attempted to introduce science in the courtroom and which here contributes to an understanding ""not only of the deeds but of the doers"". Zilboorg writes with both eloquence and challenge.

Pub Date: May 14, 1954

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harcourt, Brace

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1954

Categories: NONFICTION