The Dutch penal system has long been held up to the world as a model of enlightenment. This study subjects the Dutch system to rigorous examination, and compares it to the penal systems currently operating in England and Wales.

"David Downes' fascinating comparative analysis takes us a great deal nearer to an understanding of the roots and strength of reductionism in the Netherlands...powerful and scholarly enquiry" New Statesman and Society "Contrasts in Tolerance is expertly crafted and beautifully written. Professor Downes pinpoints the crucial theoretical issues regarding sentencing, imprisonment, and decarceration and uses original and rich data that addresses these issues in the Netherlands and in England. In persuasively demonstrating real effects of specific penal policies. Professor Downes is able to address real possibilites for specific penal change. Contrasts in Tolerance is ambitious, creative, and a model in comparative empirical scholarship. As such it will prove to be a significant and lasting contribution to several fields, including Criminology, Social Policy, Political Science, and Sociology" Richard V Ericson, University of Toronto.