ABSTRACT
Restorative justice is an umbrella term, with a variety of practices and programmes that fall under it. One misidentification is that restorative justice is a particular practice, for example conferencing. Practices and programmes are different expressions of how the vision of restorative justice can manifest. Restorative justice is poised to make a significant contribution to the broader paradigm shift occurring in the world. Restorative justice could be a contribution to a paradigm shift. This requires us to think outside the box. This chapter argues that the choice and prioritization of values is related to the extent to which individuals and cultures are operating from the separatist paradigm. The separatist paradigm is the philosophy of separation, disconnection, objectivity, dichotomous thinking and justified violence. The separatist paradigm, and the criminal justice system within it, are breaking down and are in a state of crisis.
