From Rage to Reason

Analyzing sex-offence laws and false claims, this book shows that laws based on vengeance rather than justice or evidence create new forms of harm while failing to address the real and pervasive problem of sexual violence.

In this timely and extensively researched book, sociologist Emily Horowitz demonstrates how current sex-offence policies in the United States not only create new forms of harm but also hinder those who have caused harm from engaging in constructive repentance or contributing to society after punishment. Horowitz also highlights the shortcomings of criminal justice responses to social problems.

Sharing detailed narratives from the experiences of those on registries and their loved ones, Horowitz reveals the social impact and cycle of violence that result from dehumanizing and banishing individuals who have already been held accountable.

From Rage to Reason offers a new perspective on how and why false claims about sex offences have become so pervasive and how these myths have fostered ineffective policies with little connection to the reality of most sexual abuse cases. The book argues that to genuinely prevent sexual abuse, it is essential to unearth the sources of these misunderstandings, systematically debunk these claims, and engage in frank and genuine discussions about the limits of legal responses to complex social problems.