Over the past few weeks many people and entities seemed to obsess over the release of former president Donald Trump’s mugshot in connection with his indictment and forthcoming arrest, in connection with charges that the engaged in election fraud, by the Fulton County District Attorney’s (DA) office.
The focus on the highly anticipated mugshot, unleashed a tsunami of mostly creative, largely visual, and sometimes humorous and at other times unflattering photoshopped and manipulated images of the defendants who were about to surrender, those who got booked, and projections of what Trump’s image might or should look like when his mugshot is taken.
It’s not clear exactly why mugshots, photos that capture people at their worst moment, have become important cultural markers in our society. And it’s not just Trump’s mugshot, nor those of his alleged co-conspirators that capture the public’s attention.
We are fascinated by mugshots of all manner of celebrities, including musicians (e.g., Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, etc.), actors/actresses (e.g., Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, etc.), sports stars (Mike Tyson, Denis Rodman, etc.), politicians (e.g., Rod Blagojevich, etc.), and businessmen (e.g., Bernie Madoff, Bill Gates, etc.).
It’s also not certain where the origins of this fascination derives. I suspect that it’s anchored in the schadenfreude phenomenon (basically the pleasure experienced when witnessing someone else’s misfortune). And it’s not everyone’s mugshot that we care about.
We are titillated with watching the rich, the famous, the boisterous, and the obnoxious amongst us get arrested, finger printed, photographed, and if need be convicted.
It’s also because we like to see a person of high stature, particularly one who is not well liked, be taken down a peg or two, a phenomenon often referred to as celebrity downfall.
For some of us, I suspect, the mugshot, and Trump’s in particular, gave us some sort of closure on the long running saga on whether or not he would be indicted, and ultimately arrested by Fani Williams, the Fulton County DA.
In other words, it’s cathartic and reassuring to witness and know that even in America people are at some level held accountable for their actions, and that the criminal justice system, as imperfect as it is, works for everyone and not just for the powerless.
The mugshot, and the activities surrounding this step in the processing of alleged suspects in a criminal case, is also part of the collective voyeurism, that we as Americans freely take part in.
We do this when we follow the highly curated social media feeds of our friends, acquaintances, relatives, and heroes, flip through People magazine, or watch television shows like “Lifestyles of the rich and famous.”
Some of this behavior is because are bored, tired and exhausted with our lives, work, partners, friends, etc. Alternatively see this kind of behavior as a result of our collective diagnosed and undiagnosed Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
We can probably agree that constantly refreshing our social media feeds in the hours leading up to Trump’s booking, or other similar behaviors, is not a productive or creative use of our time. Channeling our energies away from these kinds of voyeuristic activities and towards things that hold more significance, such as creating meaningful content, volunteering at homeless shelters, or even teaching a child to read, have the potential to offer us and others a much more fulfilling use of our resources.
Although numerous strategies exist to prevent us from going down social media and similar rabbit holes, we need to be more introspective and reflective of what we do, how we do it, and why. By considering the role the voyeuristic activities play in our lives, we might consider alternatives that give both ourselves and others joy, happiness, and meaning. Ultimately, by stepping away from the incessant virtual noise, and recognizing our role in this ecosystem, we be able to create space for genuine growth and impactful contributions. The next and harder part is putting our plans for change into action.
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/Screen-Shot-2023-08-27-at-8.03.58-AM.png6861022Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2023-08-27 13:29:052024-09-22 12:21:25Trump, his alleged co-conspirators, and our fascination with Mugshots
This summer many people took breaks from their regular routines, hoping to spend their time on a range of activities from relaxing vacations to thrilling adventures.
But for many individuals, their experiences did not match what they expected and they ended up frustrated and disappointed.
More than likely, part of the reason why this occurs is that many people fail to clearly define how they genuinely wish to spend their time off work or school, or do so with unrealistic notions of what those periods might entail.
When travelers fail to define their expectations, and plan for possible outcomes, they may encounter unnecessary frustration and disappointment. Instead of coming back from a vacation relaxed and refreshed, many people return home feeling physically and emotionally exhausted because of the unnecessary and unwarranted stress they encountered.
For some, the ideal vacation involves lounging on the beach, sipping favorite beverages, and enjoying the sun. However, without proper preparation, this seemingly idyllic scenario can quickly turn sour. Crowded beaches, persistent local vendors, and concerns about personal belongings can tarnish the experience.
Similarly, even in the pursuit of relaxation, unforeseen challenges like lost luggage, vehicle breakdowns, and stolen valuables can occur, turning a vacation into an unexpected adventure.
On the other hand, some individuals seek out adventure during their break from work or school. Engaging in challenging hikes, mountain climbing, surfing big waves, canoe trips to remote areas, white-water rafting, and scuba diving are examples of this thrill-seeking category. But even among these kinds of activities there can be significant times that are boring and predictable.
Then again, some people may desire a blend of relaxation and adventure. Planning for a combination of both, or allowing room for spontaneity, when unexpected opportunities arise, can lead to a more fulfilling vacation.
That’s why it’s important for travelers and adventurers to address certain assumptions they may have about the breaks they may take. It’s crucial to carefully think through these situations, based on their previous experiences, the wisdom of experts, their own personal preferences and goals, and the reality of the situation as it develops.
Vacationers and adventurers also need to consider what they truly desire from their time away and plan accordingly.
Undoubtedly determining the nature of a getaway is influenced by numerous factors such as available resources—like amount of time off, and discretionary income. Traveling with companions, whether family or friends, can also complicate decision-making due to differing objectives.
But once that is acknowledged, the hard work begins.
In conclusion, understanding the distinction between vacations and adventures is essential for planning a getaway that aligns with travelers and adventurers desires. By defining expectations, considering available resources, and staying open to both relaxation and exploration, people can craft a memorable and rewarding break from the routine of every day life.
Photo Credit:
Photographer: Wally Gobetz
Title: NYC – Brooklyn – Coney Island – The Cyclone
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/694715940_406adb28b3_o-scaled.jpg17052560Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2023-08-17 13:06:282023-08-17 13:06:28Distinguishing between vacations and adventures
Among authors, publishers, purchasers, and readers, books serve different purposes. Moreover, the opinions about the goals of this important means of communication has changed over time.
But in my opinion a good nonfiction book should be timeless. In other words, the information that a monograph that fits this category provides should be as relevant when it was written as it is today, even as a commentary on how we approached a particular subject at a given point in time. I know this is a tall order, but since there are so many books that are published every year, we need a way of making sense of the products produced by this giant of a cultural industry.
So what do I believe are the top classic nonfiction books in the field of corrections (a field that encompasses the study of jails, prisons, inmates, correctional workers, and the policies and practices therein and laws that govern these institutions) in the United States?
First, although there are lots of fictionalized accounts of life behind bars, and numerous peer-reviewed and nonpeer reviewed articles that provide a window into the world of corrections, the books listed below hold several distinctions.
Second, there are many interesting books about corrections in other countries (such as Foucault’s Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison), but since they do not directly deal with corrections in the United States, they are omitted from my list.
Third, another proviso is in order. Most of the books I include are outdated. Even though the statistics and many of the policies and practices mentioned in these monographs have changed, most of the arguments that the researchers present have withstood the test of time. In fact, in many cases, the problems that these books outline and analyze are exactly why corrections in the United States is in such a sad and sorry state of affairs today.
Fourth, notwithstanding the fact that these are the books that I typically assign whenever I teach a graduate seminar on corrections, most of these titles will jive well with what a Criminology/Criminal Justice graduate student might be required to know for their comprehensive exams in the field of corrections.
Fifth, many of the books are not easy reads. Anyone looking for a page turner would be hard pressed to find it among the monographs listed here.
Finally, I’ve purposely not included my books on corrections. That’s not because I don’t think they are important, nor must reads, but I did not want to distract the reader from other books out there that I think are worthwhile.
My top books include:
Journalist, Ted Conover’s (2001). Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing tells the story when he went undercover as a correctional officer at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison, to provide an immersive and candid account of the daily life of corrections officers and the challenges they face in one of America’s most notorious prisons.
Clear, Todd. (2007). Imprisoning Communities: How Mass Incarceration Makes Disadvantaged Neighborhoods Worse, examines the impact of mass incarceration on disadvantaged neighborhoods in the United States. The author argues that the policies of mass incarceration have adverse consequences on communities already facing economic and social challenges, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage and crime.
DiIulio, John J. (1987). Governing Prisons, presents an in-depth analysis of factors that shape the way that state prisons (with an explicit focus on New York, Texas and California) are managed and governed. He outlines a considerable amount of diversity in these prison systems. In particular, DiIulio reviews the challenges faced by administrators, policymakers, and correctional officers in maintaining order and safety within the correctional facilities and systems they are tasked with running.
Gonnerman, Jennifer. (2004). Life on the Outside: The Prison Odyssey of Elaine Barlett, also written by a journalist, tells the true story of Elaine Bartlett, a woman sentenced to two decades in prison for a nonviolent drug offense, and her struggles with the criminal justice system, re-entry into society, and the pursuit of a better life for herself and her children.
Hassine, Victor. (1996). Life Without Parole: Living in Prison Today (5th Edition), blends autobiography and social critique, authored by a former inmate who has since passed away. It offers a compelling personal and philosophical reflection on the experience of incarceration, life sentences, and their profound impact on both prisoners and society as a whole.
Irwin, John. (1985). The Jail, is an ethnographic study of a county jail, delving into the experiences of both inmates and staff to provide a comprehensive view of the jail environment. Irwin’s insights and interviews with inmates humanize the detainees, shedding light on the unique challenges and injustices faced by those awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences.
Jacobs, James. (1977). Stateville, is one of the earlier studies of the social organization and culture of a maximum-security prison, offering a detailed exploration of the power dynamics and inmate subcultures within the facility.
Lombardo, Lucien X. (1989). Guards Imprisoned, reviews the experiences and challenges of correctional officers, exploring the impact of working in the prison environment on their mental health and well-being.
Maruna, Shadd. (2001). Making Good: How Ex-Convicts Reform and Rebuild Their Lives, presents the results of a qualitative study of how individuals with criminal records overcome their pasts and reintegrate into society as productive citizens. It challenges negative stereotypes about ex-convicts and provides valuable insights into the factors that facilitate positive transformation.
McCleary, Richard. (1979). Dangerous Men: The Sociology of Parole, (2nd Edition), provides an ethnography of a state parole system and the impact it has on its parolees. It emphasizes how societal attitudes and institutional practices influence the reentry experiences of released prisoners.
Miller, Jerome G. (1996). Search and Destroy: African-American Males in the Criminal Justice System, examines the racial disparities within the criminal justice system and the overrepresentation of African-American males in prisons and jails.
Morris, Norval and Michael Tonry. (1990). Between Prison and Probation, reviews the history and effectiveness of intermediate sanctions, exploring alternative methods to traditional imprisonment, such as probation and community-based programs. The book offers important insights into creating more effective and balanced sentencing practices.
Oshinsky, David M. (1997). Worse than Slavery: Parchman Farm and the Ordeal of Jim Crow Justice, reviews the brutal realities of a notorious former plantation, that became a Mississippi State Penitentiary, during the era of Jim Crow segregation, drawing disturbing parallels between the prison system and slavery. The book explores the connection between the history of racial oppression and modern-day mass incarceration.
Owen, Barbara. (1998). In the Mix: Struggle and Survival in A Women’s Prison, is one of the first comprehensive examinations of the lives of incarcerated women and the challenges they face in a correctional setting, shedding light on the unique issues and gender-specific issues within the prison system.
Petersilia, Joan. (2003). When Prisoners Come: Parole and Prisoner Re-entry, focuses on the process of prisoner re-entry and the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support and resources for former prisoners as they strive to rebuild their lives in order to minimize the possibility of recidivism.
Rideau, Wilbert and Ron Wikberg. (1992). Life Sentences: Rage and Survival Behind the Bars, is derived from a series of essays/articles, some of which appeared in The Angolite (the Louisiana State Penitentiary newspaper), written by two former death row inmates. In addition to providing a brief history Angola prison, these pieces offer a firsthand account of life on death row, sexual assault behind bars, prison policies, dying in prison, and the transformative power of education.
Sykes, Gresham (1958). The Society of Captives, examines the informal social dynamics and power structures within prisons, exploring how the institutional environment influences the behavior and attitudes of both inmates and staff. By analyzing the informal social codes (e.g., the Convict Code) and relationships that shape life within prison walls, Sykes provides valuable insights into the functioning of the corrections system.
To most scholars of corrections there will probably not be any surprises in this list, but for readers who are unfamiliar with the academic field of corrections, these books are worth exploring.
Clearly there are lots of other good books on corrections in the United States to consult, but this list should serve as a starting point or invitation for individuals interested in learning more about the intricacies of the American prison system, the people who are housed there, those who work behind bars, and the intricacies of policies and procedures that operate in these unique environments.
Photo credit:
Johannes Jansson/norden.org,
Title Book Pages
CC BY 2.5 dk, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25009679
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/Screen-Shot-2023-08-02-at-1.24.26-PM.png629952Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2023-08-04 09:39:122023-08-04 09:39:12My top recommended nonfiction books in the field of corrections in the United States
Trump, his alleged co-conspirators, and our fascination with Mugshots
/by Jeffrey Ian RossOver the past few weeks many people and entities seemed to obsess over the release of former president Donald Trump’s mugshot in connection with his indictment and forthcoming arrest, in connection with charges that the engaged in election fraud, by the Fulton County District Attorney’s (DA) office.
The focus on the highly anticipated mugshot, unleashed a tsunami of mostly creative, largely visual, and sometimes humorous and at other times unflattering photoshopped and manipulated images of the defendants who were about to surrender, those who got booked, and projections of what Trump’s image might or should look like when his mugshot is taken.
It’s not clear exactly why mugshots, photos that capture people at their worst moment, have become important cultural markers in our society. And it’s not just Trump’s mugshot, nor those of his alleged co-conspirators that capture the public’s attention.
We are fascinated by mugshots of all manner of celebrities, including musicians (e.g., Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, etc.), actors/actresses (e.g., Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, etc.), sports stars (Mike Tyson, Denis Rodman, etc.), politicians (e.g., Rod Blagojevich, etc.), and businessmen (e.g., Bernie Madoff, Bill Gates, etc.).
It’s also not certain where the origins of this fascination derives. I suspect that it’s anchored in the schadenfreude phenomenon (basically the pleasure experienced when witnessing someone else’s misfortune). And it’s not everyone’s mugshot that we care about.
We are titillated with watching the rich, the famous, the boisterous, and the obnoxious amongst us get arrested, finger printed, photographed, and if need be convicted.
It’s also because we like to see a person of high stature, particularly one who is not well liked, be taken down a peg or two, a phenomenon often referred to as celebrity downfall.
For some of us, I suspect, the mugshot, and Trump’s in particular, gave us some sort of closure on the long running saga on whether or not he would be indicted, and ultimately arrested by Fani Williams, the Fulton County DA.
In other words, it’s cathartic and reassuring to witness and know that even in America people are at some level held accountable for their actions, and that the criminal justice system, as imperfect as it is, works for everyone and not just for the powerless.
The mugshot, and the activities surrounding this step in the processing of alleged suspects in a criminal case, is also part of the collective voyeurism, that we as Americans freely take part in.
We do this when we follow the highly curated social media feeds of our friends, acquaintances, relatives, and heroes, flip through People magazine, or watch television shows like “Lifestyles of the rich and famous.”
Some of this behavior is because are bored, tired and exhausted with our lives, work, partners, friends, etc. Alternatively see this kind of behavior as a result of our collective diagnosed and undiagnosed Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
We can probably agree that constantly refreshing our social media feeds in the hours leading up to Trump’s booking, or other similar behaviors, is not a productive or creative use of our time. Channeling our energies away from these kinds of voyeuristic activities and towards things that hold more significance, such as creating meaningful content, volunteering at homeless shelters, or even teaching a child to read, have the potential to offer us and others a much more fulfilling use of our resources.
Although numerous strategies exist to prevent us from going down social media and similar rabbit holes, we need to be more introspective and reflective of what we do, how we do it, and why. By considering the role the voyeuristic activities play in our lives, we might consider alternatives that give both ourselves and others joy, happiness, and meaning. Ultimately, by stepping away from the incessant virtual noise, and recognizing our role in this ecosystem, we be able to create space for genuine growth and impactful contributions. The next and harder part is putting our plans for change into action.
Distinguishing between vacations and adventures
/by Jeffrey Ian RossThis summer many people took breaks from their regular routines, hoping to spend their time on a range of activities from relaxing vacations to thrilling adventures.
But for many individuals, their experiences did not match what they expected and they ended up frustrated and disappointed.
More than likely, part of the reason why this occurs is that many people fail to clearly define how they genuinely wish to spend their time off work or school, or do so with unrealistic notions of what those periods might entail.
When travelers fail to define their expectations, and plan for possible outcomes, they may encounter unnecessary frustration and disappointment. Instead of coming back from a vacation relaxed and refreshed, many people return home feeling physically and emotionally exhausted because of the unnecessary and unwarranted stress they encountered.
For some, the ideal vacation involves lounging on the beach, sipping favorite beverages, and enjoying the sun. However, without proper preparation, this seemingly idyllic scenario can quickly turn sour. Crowded beaches, persistent local vendors, and concerns about personal belongings can tarnish the experience.
Similarly, even in the pursuit of relaxation, unforeseen challenges like lost luggage, vehicle breakdowns, and stolen valuables can occur, turning a vacation into an unexpected adventure.
On the other hand, some individuals seek out adventure during their break from work or school. Engaging in challenging hikes, mountain climbing, surfing big waves, canoe trips to remote areas, white-water rafting, and scuba diving are examples of this thrill-seeking category. But even among these kinds of activities there can be significant times that are boring and predictable.
Then again, some people may desire a blend of relaxation and adventure. Planning for a combination of both, or allowing room for spontaneity, when unexpected opportunities arise, can lead to a more fulfilling vacation.
That’s why it’s important for travelers and adventurers to address certain assumptions they may have about the breaks they may take. It’s crucial to carefully think through these situations, based on their previous experiences, the wisdom of experts, their own personal preferences and goals, and the reality of the situation as it develops.
Vacationers and adventurers also need to consider what they truly desire from their time away and plan accordingly.
Undoubtedly determining the nature of a getaway is influenced by numerous factors such as available resources—like amount of time off, and discretionary income. Traveling with companions, whether family or friends, can also complicate decision-making due to differing objectives.
But once that is acknowledged, the hard work begins.
In conclusion, understanding the distinction between vacations and adventures is essential for planning a getaway that aligns with travelers and adventurers desires. By defining expectations, considering available resources, and staying open to both relaxation and exploration, people can craft a memorable and rewarding break from the routine of every day life.
Photo Credit:
Photographer: Wally Gobetz
Title: NYC – Brooklyn – Coney Island – The Cyclone
My top recommended nonfiction books in the field of corrections in the United States
/by Jeffrey Ian RossAmong authors, publishers, purchasers, and readers, books serve different purposes. Moreover, the opinions about the goals of this important means of communication has changed over time.
But in my opinion a good nonfiction book should be timeless. In other words, the information that a monograph that fits this category provides should be as relevant when it was written as it is today, even as a commentary on how we approached a particular subject at a given point in time. I know this is a tall order, but since there are so many books that are published every year, we need a way of making sense of the products produced by this giant of a cultural industry.
So what do I believe are the top classic nonfiction books in the field of corrections (a field that encompasses the study of jails, prisons, inmates, correctional workers, and the policies and practices therein and laws that govern these institutions) in the United States?
First, although there are lots of fictionalized accounts of life behind bars, and numerous peer-reviewed and nonpeer reviewed articles that provide a window into the world of corrections, the books listed below hold several distinctions.
Second, there are many interesting books about corrections in other countries (such as Foucault’s Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison), but since they do not directly deal with corrections in the United States, they are omitted from my list.
Third, another proviso is in order. Most of the books I include are outdated. Even though the statistics and many of the policies and practices mentioned in these monographs have changed, most of the arguments that the researchers present have withstood the test of time. In fact, in many cases, the problems that these books outline and analyze are exactly why corrections in the United States is in such a sad and sorry state of affairs today.
Fourth, notwithstanding the fact that these are the books that I typically assign whenever I teach a graduate seminar on corrections, most of these titles will jive well with what a Criminology/Criminal Justice graduate student might be required to know for their comprehensive exams in the field of corrections.
Fifth, many of the books are not easy reads. Anyone looking for a page turner would be hard pressed to find it among the monographs listed here.
Finally, I’ve purposely not included my books on corrections. That’s not because I don’t think they are important, nor must reads, but I did not want to distract the reader from other books out there that I think are worthwhile.
My top books include:
Journalist, Ted Conover’s (2001). Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing tells the story when he went undercover as a correctional officer at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison, to provide an immersive and candid account of the daily life of corrections officers and the challenges they face in one of America’s most notorious prisons.
Clear, Todd. (2007). Imprisoning Communities: How Mass Incarceration Makes Disadvantaged Neighborhoods Worse, examines the impact of mass incarceration on disadvantaged neighborhoods in the United States. The author argues that the policies of mass incarceration have adverse consequences on communities already facing economic and social challenges, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage and crime.
DiIulio, John J. (1987). Governing Prisons, presents an in-depth analysis of factors that shape the way that state prisons (with an explicit focus on New York, Texas and California) are managed and governed. He outlines a considerable amount of diversity in these prison systems. In particular, DiIulio reviews the challenges faced by administrators, policymakers, and correctional officers in maintaining order and safety within the correctional facilities and systems they are tasked with running.
Gonnerman, Jennifer. (2004). Life on the Outside: The Prison Odyssey of Elaine Barlett, also written by a journalist, tells the true story of Elaine Bartlett, a woman sentenced to two decades in prison for a nonviolent drug offense, and her struggles with the criminal justice system, re-entry into society, and the pursuit of a better life for herself and her children.
Hassine, Victor. (1996). Life Without Parole: Living in Prison Today (5th Edition), blends autobiography and social critique, authored by a former inmate who has since passed away. It offers a compelling personal and philosophical reflection on the experience of incarceration, life sentences, and their profound impact on both prisoners and society as a whole.
Irwin, John. (1985). The Jail, is an ethnographic study of a county jail, delving into the experiences of both inmates and staff to provide a comprehensive view of the jail environment. Irwin’s insights and interviews with inmates humanize the detainees, shedding light on the unique challenges and injustices faced by those awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences.
Jacobs, James. (1977). Stateville, is one of the earlier studies of the social organization and culture of a maximum-security prison, offering a detailed exploration of the power dynamics and inmate subcultures within the facility.
Lombardo, Lucien X. (1989). Guards Imprisoned, reviews the experiences and challenges of correctional officers, exploring the impact of working in the prison environment on their mental health and well-being.
Maruna, Shadd. (2001). Making Good: How Ex-Convicts Reform and Rebuild Their Lives, presents the results of a qualitative study of how individuals with criminal records overcome their pasts and reintegrate into society as productive citizens. It challenges negative stereotypes about ex-convicts and provides valuable insights into the factors that facilitate positive transformation.
McCleary, Richard. (1979). Dangerous Men: The Sociology of Parole, (2nd Edition), provides an ethnography of a state parole system and the impact it has on its parolees. It emphasizes how societal attitudes and institutional practices influence the reentry experiences of released prisoners.
Miller, Jerome G. (1996). Search and Destroy: African-American Males in the Criminal Justice System, examines the racial disparities within the criminal justice system and the overrepresentation of African-American males in prisons and jails.
Morris, Norval and Michael Tonry. (1990). Between Prison and Probation, reviews the history and effectiveness of intermediate sanctions, exploring alternative methods to traditional imprisonment, such as probation and community-based programs. The book offers important insights into creating more effective and balanced sentencing practices.
Oshinsky, David M. (1997). Worse than Slavery: Parchman Farm and the Ordeal of Jim Crow Justice, reviews the brutal realities of a notorious former plantation, that became a Mississippi State Penitentiary, during the era of Jim Crow segregation, drawing disturbing parallels between the prison system and slavery. The book explores the connection between the history of racial oppression and modern-day mass incarceration.
Owen, Barbara. (1998). In the Mix: Struggle and Survival in A Women’s Prison, is one of the first comprehensive examinations of the lives of incarcerated women and the challenges they face in a correctional setting, shedding light on the unique issues and gender-specific issues within the prison system.
Petersilia, Joan. (2003). When Prisoners Come: Parole and Prisoner Re-entry, focuses on the process of prisoner re-entry and the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support and resources for former prisoners as they strive to rebuild their lives in order to minimize the possibility of recidivism.
Rideau, Wilbert and Ron Wikberg. (1992). Life Sentences: Rage and Survival Behind the Bars, is derived from a series of essays/articles, some of which appeared in The Angolite (the Louisiana State Penitentiary newspaper), written by two former death row inmates. In addition to providing a brief history Angola prison, these pieces offer a firsthand account of life on death row, sexual assault behind bars, prison policies, dying in prison, and the transformative power of education.
Sykes, Gresham (1958). The Society of Captives, examines the informal social dynamics and power structures within prisons, exploring how the institutional environment influences the behavior and attitudes of both inmates and staff. By analyzing the informal social codes (e.g., the Convict Code) and relationships that shape life within prison walls, Sykes provides valuable insights into the functioning of the corrections system.
To most scholars of corrections there will probably not be any surprises in this list, but for readers who are unfamiliar with the academic field of corrections, these books are worth exploring.
Clearly there are lots of other good books on corrections in the United States to consult, but this list should serve as a starting point or invitation for individuals interested in learning more about the intricacies of the American prison system, the people who are housed there, those who work behind bars, and the intricacies of policies and procedures that operate in these unique environments.
Photo credit:
Johannes Jansson/norden.org,
Title Book Pages
CC BY 2.5 dk, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25009679