How voluntary sector organisations can influence Public Opinion on Crime Evidence Library

Why read this evidence review?

This review captures some of the key lessons from the academic research into public opinion on crime. It summarises aspects of associated disciplines regarding how opinions are formed and theories on punitive sentiment among the public. It also provides recommendations on areas for future research. Organisations may be particularly interested in the key pointers for successful approaches to directly influence public opinion on crime and criminal justice. These focus principally on ‘deliberative democracy’, which can essentially be a method for more substantive, inclusive and balanced public debate. This paper is likely to be most relevant to voluntary sector organisations interested in shifting punitive attitudes, such as those seeking prison and criminal justice reform. Researchers and students may also find it a useful starting point, for inspiring further enquiry. The lessons from the evidence and emerging insights into enhancing public debate, could also be of interest to those wanting to challenge punitive public attitudes on the issues of immigration and other beliefs that are based on prejudice or are otherwise vulnerable to manipulation. Deputy Mayors for Policing and Crime and other devolved or public authorities, might therefore also consider how their practice of public engagement could be enhanced through more structured and informed dialogue.