CHAPTER 1: THE CORRECTIONAL SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Answers to Critical Thinking Questions..................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
ANSWERS TO CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS
1. Which of the reasons why we punish has the greatest influence on the public and its policy
makers today?
Solution:
The goal of corrections that is the most influential is “expresses public outrage.” The public is the
body that pays taxes and otherwise supports the corrections system.
2. Do you think retribution will continue to be as popular as it has been in recent years? Will the
costs of corrections affect this desire to incarcerate so many, for so long, and in long-term
institutions?
Solution:
Yes, retribution will continue to be popular. The cost of corrections will not affect the desire to
incarcerate so many for a long time. The general public will call for this and (reluctantly) pay the
costs.
3. With the rise of professionalism in corrections, what can be done about those who continue to
demonstrate a retributive spirit and express brutality toward inmates?
Solution:
Individuals should be carefully screened for employment in corrections. This should include a
psychological test that may provide some insight into the individual's personality. Employees
should be given ongoing training, including training on the correct treatment of inmates.
Employees should be given an opportunity to change their behavior. If there is a second
occurrence of mistreatment of an inmate, the employee should be fired.
4. What were the advantages and disadvantages of public executions of offenders? Would you favor
televised public executions of offenders? If not, why not?
Solution:
Advantages: general deterrence for those who watch to consider the consequences of committing
a capital crime; the ultimate punishment (death) is a public part of society for all to see