ABSTRACT

The political economy of punishment is a branch of the study of punitive forms, of their articulation, functioning and functionality, which has a long and intermittent tradition. It is mainly based on Karl Marx’s analysis of capitalism and of the relations and dynamics it generates and Pashukanis’ analysis of Law. Bourdieu’s work is testimony to a constant struggle to overcome limitations found in Marx, Weber, and Durkheim when applied to empirical research. Societies work through symbolic systems. These systems, following Durkheim, are forms of classification that fulfil a function in social order integration. These forms of classification are social and historical, that is to say, they are variable, become dated, and have their origin in relations. The state is of central importance for punishment. It is important to take the danger of over-simplification seriously where the state is mainly understood as a tool at the service of the ruling class.