Discussion Rebuttal

Introduction

There are a variety of reasons why the United States has a higher incarceration rate when compared to other nations. Some of these reasons include the policy shift in corrections amongst politicians, American exceptionalism, population growth within the country, and punitive actions. While there continues to be much debate on incapacitation, there seem to be limited solutions towards solving the high incarceration rates in the United States. 

Reasons for Incarceration Rates 

It is striking to consider how much political oversight plays a role in the outcome of correctional policies. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “during the 1970s politicians took a different approach to correctional policy by ensuring voters the main focus on crime control would be to lock up criminals” (p.122). While this approach may have seemed sensible, it has only created a host of other issues involving punishment. The direction politicians have taken towards correctional policy has greatly shaped why the United States has a higher incarceration rate than other countries. 

Another reason for such high rates has been America’s focus on being different. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “American exceptionalism should be seen as the main factor for why prisons have reached their capacity within the United States” (p.124). Taking the stance of being different has led to correctional policies implementing more stringent punitive measures that are not common amongst other countries. This type of confidence in our correctional system has only led to the high incarceration rates that exist. 

An easily overlooked factor that should be considered is how the population of the United States has grown, leading to higher incarceration rates. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “the growth in population during the last few decades, could also be seen as a driving factor in the increase of the prison population” (p.121). It is crucial to mention that population growth has an indirect effect on incarceration rates within the United States. The general sentiment would be that because there are more people within the country, it can serve as an explanation as to why the prisons have become overcrowded. 

The higher rates have much to do with laws and policies revolving around punishment. 

Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “when compared to other countries, the United States has been shown to be the most-strict in punishing each type of crime” (p.118). Given this information, it seems the United States is much more quickly than most countries to enact punishment for any crime committed. With this information outlined, it is clear as to why the United States has a higher incarceration rate compared to other nations.  

Impact on the Country

 

The offenders that end up serving time within the correctional institutions may create a negative perception amongst the public. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “it is believed that prisons hold many low-level offenders who do not Impose a serious criminal threat on the society” (p.123).  Given this view this it has an impact on the country by creating negative perception of the correctional system amongst the citizens. It does not make sense for citizens to support prisons if they believe the wrong type of offenders are being incarcerated and punished.

Another impact is how racial inequalities exist within the correctional system, which through mass incarceration only widens the presented issues. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “the correctional system is host to inequalities amongst African American offenders.” (p.136). This has a major impact on the country as a whole because racial inequalities within the justice system only elude to further racial divide within the country. So, mass incarceration can have major implications for the progress and unity of the country, considering the existing racial inequalities.

Another impact of mass incarceration is the likelihood of prisons causing offenders to commit more crimes when they return to the community. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention, “it is likely that imprisonment results in further criminal actions” (p.137). While there may be much debate on this topic, whether it has to do with labeling or replacement, there is a relationship that exists. Ultimately Prisons should not be a causing factor of crime, and if that is the case, then punitive sanctions fail to prevent crime.

Benefits

While not entirely clear, there have been benefits to the utilization of incarcerating so many people within the prison. Cullen and Jonson (2017) mention “prison expansion may prevent crime for only a period of time” (p.140). While this is clearly a major benefit and shows why mass incarceration should be encouraged, it is crucial policymakers recognize its downfalls. Clearly, there are benefits to mass incarceration, but its utilization has shown to have a breaking point where it no longer has as much of an intended effect. So while it may not be ideal for releasing every prisoner within the correctional system, it may be more effective to limit or slow down how many offenders receive prison time based on their risks to society.

Christian World View

It is beneficial to incorporate a Christian worldview when discussing the topic of mass incarceration because it can aid criminal justice practitioners in overcoming many of the conflicting challenges. The common narrative around mass incarceration would be to ensure that criminals receive punishment through imprisonment for the crimes they committed. Colossians (2021) states, “for the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality” (3:25). While supporters and non-supporters of mass incarceration tactics may disagree, it is crucial both sides come together in order for the correctional system to function efficiently. With this specific bible passage, it should be considered that even without prison, God will ensure you will receive punishment for your wrongdoing. So if prison is not applicable through the continuously changing policy and law, that is okay because eventually, the individual will receive some form of punishment through the lord. Genesis (2021) states, “whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image” (9:6). This should serve as another stark reminder through faith that actions will always have consequences.

 

References 

Bible, K. J. (n.d.). King James Bible Online (Original work published 1769 ed.). (https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/, Ed.)

Cullen, F. T. (2017). Correctional Theory. Los Angeles: Sage.