"Indifference to injustice in the criminal justice system is so pervasive, and so difficult to counteract, as to seem part of society's DNA."

"Indifference to injustice in the criminal justice system is so pervasive, and so difficult to counteract, as to seem part of society's DNA, says Bob Herbert in The New York Times.

Of course, there are many people in prison who are guilty, and probably many whose conduct merits incarceration. But it is shocking, truly shocking, how frequently cops, prosecutors and judges are willing to let the engine of prosecution send obviously not guilty people to prison.

Bob Herbert's column is about a man with dementia who confesses to a horrible crime, but clearly is delusional.

Is our society delusional? Are our public policies tied to reality? Are our private practices tied to reality?

Habits are habits of mind. Yesterday and today were exquisite days to bicycle to work, but I drove my car. How can I be so lazy, so self-indulgent? I'm an American and I can afford it. Selfishness and short term convenience are part of our society's DNA, too.

Tags: DNA, courts, criminal justice, death penalty, prison, justice, evidence

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