Who is the author of 'On the Run'?

The author of 'On the Run' is Alice Goffman.

What are the main themes in 'On the Run'?

The main themes in 'On the Run' include Social Justice Movements, Human Rights, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'On the Run'?

'On the Run' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs.

What is the main focus of Alice Goffman's book 'On the Run'?

The main focus of Alice Goffman's book 'On the Run' is the lives of young black men in Philadelphia who are affected by the criminal justice system. The book explores the impact of oppressive policing, the consequences of being on parole or probation, and the struggles of these men to maintain their freedom while navigating a system that is often stacked against them. Goffman uses in-depth ethnographic research to provide insight into the social dynamics, relationships, and the pervasive nature of surveillance and control that shape their experiences.

How does Alice Goffman illustrate the impact of mass incarceration in 'On the Run'?

In 'On the Run,' Alice Goffman illustrates the impact of mass incarceration through her in-depth ethnographic study of a community in Philadelphia that is deeply affected by the criminal justice system. She captures the everyday lives of young African American men who are regularly pursued by the police and the constant threat of arrest. Goffman highlights the psychological and social consequences of this reality, such as the strain on family relationships, the fear and stress that permeates the community, and the ways in which individuals navigate a world where they feel perpetually under surveillance. She uses personal narratives and interviews to convey the experiences of her subjects, revealing how the threat of incarceration alters their life choices and social interactions. The book also discusses the systemic issues related to race, poverty, and policing, showcasing how mass incarceration is not just an individual problem but a pervasive socio-political issue that impacts entire communities. Through her rich narrative, Goffman effectively demonstrates how mass incarceration disrupts lives and perpetuates cycles of disadvantage.

What key themes does Goffman explore throughout the book?

In 'On the Run,' Alice Goffman explores several key themes, including: Social Injustice and Inequality: Goffman examines the systemic issues faced by marginalized communities, particularly African Americans living in urban environments. Surveillance and Policing: The book discusses the impact of aggressive policing and constant surveillance on individuals and families, illustrating how these practices affect the lives of the community's residents. Family and Relationships: Goffman delves into the dynamics of family life in precarious circumstances, highlighting the strain on relationships due to incarceration and criminal justice involvement. Identity and Agency: The narratives reveal how individuals navigate their identities within a society that often stigmatizes them, showcasing their efforts to assert agency in challenging situations. The Cycle of Crime and Punishment: Goffman explores how poverty, crime, and incarceration are intertwined, creating a cycle that is difficult for individuals to escape.

In what ways does Goffman's background influence her perspective in 'On the Run'?

Alice Goffman's background significantly influences her perspective in 'On the Run' in several ways: Academic Training: As a sociologist, Goffman approaches her subject matter with a rigorous analytical framework, applying qualitative research methods and a focus on ethnography. This academic lens helps her dissect the social structures and dynamics within the communities she studies. Personal Connections: Goffman has a personal connection to the issues at hand, as her experiences growing up in a middle-class environment contrast sharply with the lives of the individuals she portrays in her work. This juxtaposition helps her to understand and convey the complexities of poverty, race, and the justice system. Fieldwork Experience: Her immersive fieldwork in a predominantly African American neighborhood in Philadelphia for several years provides her with firsthand insights into the lives of individuals affected by systemic issues. This deep engagement allows her to present their stories with authenticity and empathy. Cultural Awareness: Goffman's upbringing in a relatively privileged setting raises her awareness of the social disparities and challenges faced by marginalized communities. This awareness fuels her commitment to amplify the voices of those who are often overlooked or misrepresented in academic and public discourse. Critical Perspective on Justice: Her background may also shape her critical perspective on the American criminal justice system, particularly regarding its impacts on communities of color and the cycles of incarceration and social control. Overall, Goffman's unique combination of academic rigor, personal experience, and critical perspective allows her to provide a nuanced understanding of the lives of those "on the run" from law enforcement and the societal structures that contribute to their predicaments.

What are some of the personal stories shared in the book that highlight the realities of young black men in America?

In 'On the Run,' Alice Goffman shares several personal stories that illuminate the experiences of young black men in America, particularly those living in impoverished urban neighborhoods. Some notable narratives include: Criminal Justice Encounters: Goffman recounts the story of young men who frequently experience police harassment, arrests, and the challenges of legal proceedings. These encounters reveal the sense of fear, frustration, and mistrust that permeates their relationships with law enforcement. Family Dynamics: The book also features stories of young men dealing with the impact of incarceration on their families. Many have relatives who are imprisoned, which affects their emotional well-being and shapes their views on crime and morality. Survival Strategies: Goffman details how young black men navigate a landscape filled with violence and systemic inequality. She highlights their strategies for survival, such as forming strong community bonds or engaging in illicit activities as a means to cope with economic hardships. Daily Life and Aspirations: Through the experiences of her subjects, Goffman illustrates the mundane aspects of life for these young men, including their aspirations for jobs, education, and relationships. Despite facing numerous obstacles, many express hope and a desire for a better future. These stories collectively emphasize the complex interplay of race, class, and the criminal justice system, providing a poignant look at the lives of young black men in America.

On the Run

In 'On the Run', Alice Goffman immerses herself in the lives of young African American men in Philadelphia, exploring the relentless pursuit they face from law enforcement. Through vivid storytelling and firsthand experience, Goffman reveals the systemic injustices and societal pressures that drive them into a world of constant flight. The narrative unveils the emotional and psychological toll of evasion, not just on these individuals but also on their families and communities. As the characters navigate a landscape rife with danger, readers are prompted to rethink notions of crime, punishment, and the American justice system. This gripping account invites readers to bear witness to a hidden reality that challenges the status quo.

By Alice Goffman

Published: 2015

"In the shadows of the city, where survival often trumps the law, we learn that freedom is not just a state of being, but a dance with danger."

Politics and Current Affairs Social Justice Movements Human Rights

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What Readers Say About This Book

Originally published: Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2014, as part of the Fieldwork encounters and discoveries series.

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Key Points from On the Run

In "On the Run," Alice Goffman intricately illustrates her central thesis that young African American men exist under a pervasive regime of surveillance and law enforcement that generates a relentless cycle of evasion and criminalization. For example, she describes the constant presence of police in the lives of these men, highlighting how they are often pursued for minor infractions or perceived threats, leading to stress and strategic avoidance of interactions with law enforcement. One striking narrative she shares is that of a young man named "Chuck" who, in an effort to evade arrest, refrains from attending regular family events and becomes detached from societal norms. This cycle of evasion not only isolates individuals but warps their identities and social interactions. Goffman argues that this experience transcends individual stories; it reflects an organized systemic racial injustice that is deeply entrenched in American society, framing it as a collective struggle against institutional oppression. The significance of her argument lies in its ability to challenge narratives that depict Black criminality as inherent, instead shedding light on societal structures that enforce such criminalization. Thus, Goffman’s work connects to broader themes of systemic racism, social inequality, and the intersection of race and law enforcement, compelling readers to reconsider the mechanisms through which societal norms are enforced and the ramifications those norms have on marginalized communities.

About the Author

Alice Goffman

Alice Goffman is a renowned American sociologist and author, best known for her compelling works on urban life, inequality, and the criminal justice system. Her notable works include 'On the Run: Fugitive Life in an American City,' which explores the ramifications of life in a marginalized community in Philadelphia and won the 2015 C. Wright Mills Award. Goffman's writing style is characterized by a deep ethnographic approach, blending rigorous academic research with vivid narrative storytelling that brings to light the lived experiences of her subjects.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Alice Goffman
Published: April 2015
Publisher: Macmillan
ISBN: 1250065666
Language: English
Pages: 299
Genres: Social Justice MovementsHuman RightsPolitics and Current Affairs

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“In the shadows of the city, where survival often trumps the law, we learn that freedom is not just a state of being, but a dance with danger.”

On the Run

By Alice Goffman

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Key Points from On the Run

In "On the Run," Alice Goffman intricately illustrates her central thesis that young African American men exist under a pervasive regime of surveillance and law enforcement that generates a relentless cycle of evasion and criminalization. For example, she describes the constant presence of police in the lives of these men, highlighting how they are often pursued for minor infractions or perceived threats, leading to stress and strategic avoidance of interactions with law enforcement. One striking narrative she shares is that of a young man named "Chuck" who, in an effort to evade arrest, refrains from attending regular family events and becomes detached from societal norms. This cycle of evasion not only isolates individuals but warps their identities and social interactions. Goffman argues that this experience transcends individual stories; it reflects an organized systemic racial injustice that is deeply entrenched in American society, framing it as a collective struggle against institutional oppression. The significance of her argument lies in its ability to challenge narratives that depict Black criminality as inherent, instead shedding light on societal structures that enforce such criminalization. Thus, Goffman’s work connects to broader themes of systemic racism, social inequality, and the intersection of race and law enforcement, compelling readers to reconsider the mechanisms through which societal norms are enforced and the ramifications those norms have on marginalized communities.

On the Run

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from On the Run

About the Author

Alice Goffman

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

Right Turn

The New Jim Crow

New to Big

Darkness at Noon

The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks

A People's History of the United States

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Generating Inequality

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