Convict Politics

In "Convict Politics," author Liang Cai delves into the intricate relationship between law and society in early Chinese empires. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2025, this compelling hardback edition spans 320 pages and is a must-read for those interested in the intersections of criminal justice and cultural history.

Utilizing newly excavated manuscripts and innovative techniques from the digital humanities, Cai uncovers how these ancient empires often criminalized the innocent while exonerating true offenders. This paradoxical pursuit of a crime-free utopia not only shaped legal practices but also instilled a lasting skepticism towards the law within the Chinese tradition. "Convict Politics" invites readers to explore the complexities of justice, power, and societal values in a historical context, making it an essential addition to any scholarly collection.