Discipline and Democracy: School Punishments and Political Participation

• In Event: Poster Session: Ralph Bunche Summer Institute (RBSI) Scholars

Abstract

The American carceral state is ever-expanding and impacts all facets of life. This is especially true for people of color. An interesting aspect of this issue is revealed in the interaction between the institutions of education and prisons. This study seeks to uncover the relationship between punitive school policies and political participation and determine whether these policies are a mobilizing or deterring force. The rate of punishments and turnout rate of registered voters at the county level in North Carolina were utilized to conduct this analysis controlling for demographics. Our findings indicate that our current understanding of carceral knowledge and violence’s impact on political behavior may not hold in all circumstances. From this study, we take away that much work has yet to be done to fully understand the complex relationship between the carceral state and political attitudes and behaviors.

Author

• Karis Rivers, University of Michigan