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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page paper compares the American and Swedish prison systems, and argues that based on the rate of recidivism, the Swedish system is more effective. Bibliography lists 4 sources.
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5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_HV2prsns.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
of security. It argues that based on the rates of recidivism, Swedens system is superior to that of the U.S. Discussion Its probably fair to say that the American penal
system has switched from the idea of rehabilitation to that of punishment. The "three strikes" laws have filled up the nations jails with people guilty of relatively minor offenses, causing
overcrowding and frustration. In addition, the vigilante mood that overtook the country on 9/11 has led to widespread approval of harsh punishments and the construction of such things as the
new "supermax" prisons. Sweden on the other hand has stuck to its principles and runs a prison system "that values rehabilitation over punishment" (Alvarez, 2005). There are few metal
detectors in use, and "conjugal visits ... and unlocked cell doors [are] the norm" (Alvarez, 2005). When inmates become bored they can watch television because there is one in each
cell or room; or they can "request off-campus leaves. Some open prisons even lack fences" (Alvarez, 2005). What are undoubtedly lax prisons by American standards were reevaluated after the escape
of several "dangerous criminals" in 2004 (Alvarez, 2005). The Swedish population feels that there are those who are dangerous to society and want them locked up securely; however, they also
note there is a need "to stick with our philosophy of humanization" (Alvarez, 2005). The escapees, by the way, were soon recaptured but not before the resignation of the Prison
Service director; there were also calls for the Justice Minister, Thomas Rodstroem, to resign, but he remained in his position (Alvarez, 2005). He did however begin a "comprehensive review of
Swedens prison system," including plans to build a "bunker-style prison for the most violent offenders," though the idea has since been dropped (Alvarez, 2005). The escapes in 2004 were the
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