A Year and a Day: Does Jail or Prison Have Larger Effects?

• In Event: Deterrence, Labeling and Prisonization

Abstract

Cesare Beccaria, in his Book “Of Crimes and Punishments,” outlines clear parameters of deterrence methodology, its purpose, and its affect on a greater society. Although politically unpopular at the time, Beccaria’s work spurred notable research that continues today. However, for all the research performed, researchers are still confounded by the dearth of continuity. What deters, who is deterrable, and what purpose does deterrence serve are all relevant questions that have largely been unanswered with agreement. And, with staggering numbers of people incarcerated and subsequently recidivating, a clear solution is clearly needed. Placing individuals in jails and prisons has appeared to be counterproductive. With recidivism rates hovering around 60 to 70 percent, the current system of incarcerating people may need more attention. Further, the sheer costs of imprisonment are high, putting some states in a fiscal crisis. Nevertheless, it seems vital to investigate the true effects of incarceration decisions and whether they work. The central question is whether the decision to incarcerate has a deterrent affect on those sentenced to jail or prison and which method has a stronger negative effect, if any.

Author

• Christopher Rosbough, Florida State University