«Only connect»: spunti per una teoria della giustizia nell’intreccio tra diritto e letteratura. Guida alla lettura di «Giustizia e letteratura III»

The origins and development of the research project which led to the publication of “Giustizia e letteratura III” are presented, together with some insight into the its specific theoretical background and methodological outline. This foreword also provides the reader with some indications regarding both the structure of the book, and the different possible ways to read and consult it. Basic keys for a better understanding of the text are provided, together with highlights on the contents of the volume, and on the intertwining of core topics, such as causes and consequences of crime; victimization and coping mechanisms; the role of criminal law and criminal proceedings; juridical formalism and equity; law and ethics; the ‘time’ of justice; freedom, responsibility, culpability and forgiveness; rules, legality, socialization and culture; the value of narratives in the development of a theory of justice and of a training method for law practitioners; language and stories as mediums for justice issues; the impact of prejudice and of existing balances of power on the application of the law; social and legal mechanisms of exclusion and inclusion; gender issues and legal systems; retributive and utilitarian approaches to sanctioning; restorative justice; and many more.