2026 Annual William A. Owens Lecture
The Owens Institute for Behavioral Research hosted its 2026 Annual William A. Owens Lecture on April 3, featuring Dr. Bruce Western, President of the Russell Sage Foundation. The event brought together UGA undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on inequality and the U.S. justice system.
In his lecture, “Poor Justice: Case Studies in Punishment & Inequality,” Western examined how mass incarceration in the United States extends beyond crime control to reflect broader patterns of poverty, racial inequality, and social disadvantage. Drawing on national data and longitudinal research, he highlighted how incarceration has reached historically high levels and disproportionately impacts marginalized populations, often reinforcing cycles of hardship rather than alleviating them.
Western also explored the hidden dimensions of the justice system, including the burden of fines and fees, repeated short-term jail stays, and the challenges individuals face upon reentry into society. His research emphasized how early-life trauma, poor health, and economic instability are deeply intertwined with justice system involvement, underscoring the need for more holistic policy approaches.
The lecture sparked meaningful conversation among attendees and offered valuable insights into the social consequences of punishment and inequality. Guests continued the discussion during a well-attended reception, making the event both intellectually enriching and highly engaging for the campus community.