Discrimination in Criminal Justice

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews an example of de jure discrimination in American law. Specifically the paper looks at Section 412 of the Patriot Act which permits the United States Attorney General to hold foreign aliens in detention, possibly indefinitely, without actually having to file charges against them. The paper looks at the disquieting features of the Act and also takes into account the implications for America if Section 412 is not dramatically redrawn.

From the Paper:

"Since September 11, 2001, Americans have found themselves waging a war against Islamic extremism - an extremism which has most spectacularly manifested itself in the form of terrorism. The following paper will look at how components of the United States Patriot Act - an Act which grew out of governmental concerns that terrorists could very easily strike once again at the heart of America - is a "de jure" (in law) form of discrimination that unfairly punishes American citizens of Middle Eastern descent. No less importantly, the paper will also explore what this means for America more generally. As should become apparent, "de jure" discrimination, even when done in pursuit of laudable objectives, can do as much harm as good. "

More papers on Discrimination in Criminal Justice:

• Analytical Essay # 113033 : "Cultural Diversity in Criminal Justice"
• Essay # 45711 : "Women in Criminal Justice"
• Essay # 65761 : "Criminal Justice Policy and Practice"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: