Examining Confinement Beyond Bars From Philosophical and Practical Perspectives

Abstract

The author examines the concept of confinement from various philosophical and practical perspectives. The historical development of confinement is traced back to the 19th century, when corrections became a colonial institution designed to change offenders' behaviour through punishment and isolation. But it has grown far more than this. Confinement affects people's identity, and philosophical insights can help in alleviating the suffering of those who are confined. Furthermore, the author delves into the biopolitical and phenomenological aspects of confinement, as well as its ethical implications in relation to memory, disability, caretaking, and trauma: confinement by other names. In conclusion, we need a more humane and thoughtful approach to the many confinements, which recognizes the impact of technology on social and cultural norms and values.