Dark humour and euphemism as facilitators of state excesses

This presentation discusses one facet of a larger project with the working title of Overkill: Excesses of the State in Regulation, Crime Control, and National Security

The overall project asks what it is that leads liberal-democratic governments and their agents to engage in overregulation, abuse of criminal suspects, excessive secrecy, and mass killing (inter alia).

The presentation will explore the use of dark humour and euphemism as facilitators of overkill when employed as instruments of disinhibition, coping, concealment, and extenuation.

Caution: some viewers may find aspects of the presentation to be offensive and/or distressing.

About the Speaker

Peter Grabosky joined RegNet in 2001 and is now Professor Emeritus. He has worked in various areas of criminology and public policy, and has had a longstanding interest in the abuse of power. His current interests focus on excesses of the state in regulation, crime control, and national security.

COVID protocols

• As there is a maximum capacity for this venue, registration is mandatory for this event. Please register here.

• Places are offered on a first come, first served basis.

• If you do not register, it is possible you may not be accommodated should you attend on the day.

• Please do not attend this event if you feel unwell, are awaiting the results of a test or are required to self-isolate/quarantine. The ANU's COVID Safety advice can be accessed here.

• Please check in to the event using the Check-In CBR QR or numeric code found at the door to the Hedley Bull building.

This seminar presentation is in-person only.