David Garland is a prominent sociologist and criminologist known for his work on the sociology of punishment and the social aspects of crime. He has contributed significantly to the understanding of how societies respond to crime and the implications of these responses for social justice. His research often explores the relationship between law, social control, and the state. Garland is a professor at New York University and has published several influential books and articles. His notable works include The Culture of Control and Punishment and Modern Society, which examine the evolution of penal practices and the cultural contexts surrounding them.