On the Run

Name: On the Run
Rating: 4.60 (1 reviews)
Author: Alice Goffman

304 pages, 2015

Alice Goffman

economics & politics

987 books

Takeaways

Description

For forty years, the tough-on-crime policies that led to a prison boom have disproportionately affected Black communities. It has also torn at the lives of those on the outside. As arrest quotas and surveillance technologies criminalize entire blocks, a climate of fear and suspicion pervades daily life for young men entangled in the legal system, as well as for their family members and working neighbors. Alice Goffman spent six years in one Philadelphia neighborhood, documenting the routine stops, searches, raids, and beatings that young men navigate as they come of age. In the course of her research, she became roommates with Mike and Chuck, two friends trying to make ends meet between low wage jobs and drug dealing. Like many in the neighborhood, Mike and Chuck were arrested or served jail time numerous times; they struggled to find work or avoid police harassment while holding on to their relationships with their children, who lived with their mother in another part of the city.

Understanding the Impact of the Criminal Justice System

Alice Goffman's On the Run gives us a deep look into the lives of young African American men in Philadelphia who are constantly evading the law. It shows us how the criminal justice system affects not only those who are directly involved, but also their families and communities.

The Cycle of Fear and Mistrust

The book explores the cycle of fear and mistrust that is perpetuated by constant police surveillance. This fear often leads to a life on the run, further deepening the divide between law enforcement and the community.

The Importance of Ethnographic Research

Goffman's research method, living in the community she studied, allowed her to gain a unique perspective. This book highlights the importance of ethnographic research in understanding complex social issues.

The Struggle of Daily Life on the Run

On the Run paints a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by those living in constant fear of arrest. From finding employment to maintaining relationships, the book shows how a life on the run impacts every aspect of life.

The Role of Community in Survival

Despite the hardships, the book also highlights the strength of community. It shows how individuals come together to help each other survive, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges.

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Quotes 3

Alice Goffman's book 'On the Run' is a riveting, groundbreaking account of the lives of young men in a poor neighborhood in Philadelphia. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the realities of urban poverty and crime.