Oxford University Press A Precarious Life - Oxford University Press Criminology Book

A Precarious Life provides an internal view of conflict within one of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities in Britain. Part of the Clarendon Studies in Criminology, this work uses a long-term ethnography at home to explore the realities of life in a deindustrialized town. The narrative follows the life and death of the author's father, Paul, whose experiences reflect the broader struggles of the post-industrial era. After working in the coke ovens of the Corby steelworks until its closure in 1980, Paul transitioned to running a mobile grocery shop on his council estate. His journey through the following decades highlights the various injuries and challenges faced by those living in these environments. By engaging closely with the social practices of Paul and his relational community, this book offers a deep look into community dynamics and the consequences of industrial decline. It is an essential read for those interested in sociology, criminology, and the human impact of economic shifts in British history.