What does Stevenson identify as a major flaw in public perception of incarcerated individuals?

Stevenson argues that a significant flaw in public perception of incarcerated individuals is the tendency to see them exclusively as criminals, which obscures their humanity and the complex circumstances that often lead to their incarceration. This perspective fosters a lack of empathy and understanding, reducing individuals to mere labels that ignore their personal stories, struggles, and the systemic issues that contribute to their situations—such as poverty, mental health challenges, and racial bias. By framing these individuals solely within the context of their crimes, society fails to acknowledge their capacity for redemption and the broader context of their lives, which is a central theme in Stevenson's work. His advocacy emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity in every person, especially those who have been marginalized and dehumanized by the justice system.