An exploration into the use of dialogue within a prison setting

Abstract

Various initiatives have been taken to introduce forms of dialogue in prison as a means of education/correcting/rehabilitating the prison inmates. This paper explores the concept of dialogue in prison, its possibilities and challenges. In the first section the paper discusses the tradition and aims of dialogue, and whether there is a conflict between these ideals and the prison environment. Specifically, it sets the ground by comparing four different methodologies in the process of engaging in dialogue, these being those of Socrates, of Leonard Nelson, Martin Buber, David Bohm as well as Matthew Lipman. This discussion takes place within the context of officer/inmate and inmate/inmate dialogue. The paper argues that what should be promoted in prison is inmate driven reflective conversations that empower the inmate in both the selection and the development of the dialogue, within a ‘community of inquiry’ environment. The paper explores the use of ‘texts’ in order to do this, particularly the use of visual media, such as photography and video, the use of history, particularly that of punishment and prison itself as well as biographical writings/productions of inmates. The paper finally suggests that these media can be used to create conversations of a philosophical nature with inmates, including conversations on concepts such as freedom, justice, respect, and solidarity.