The Spiritual Roots of Restorative Justice (Religious Studies)

Explores the concept of Restorative Justice in diverse spiritual traditions.

This interdisciplinary study explores what major spiritual traditions say in text, tradition, and current practice about criminal justice in general and Restorative Justice in particular. It reflects the close collaboration of scholars and professionals engaged in multifaith reflection on the theory and practice of criminal law. A variety of traditions are explored: Aboriginal spirituality, Buddhism, Chinese religions, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Sikhism. Drawing on a wide range of literature and experience in the field of Restorative Justice and recognizing the ongoing interdisciplinary research into the complex relationships between religion and violence, the contributors clarify how faith-based principles of reconciliation, restoration, and healing might be implemented in pluralistic multicultural societies.

Michael L. Hadley is a Professor of Germanic Studies and a Fellow at the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society at the University of Victoria, Canada. He has published several books, including God's Little Ships: A History of the Columbia Coast Mission.