Week Six, Post Three (Reflection & Questions)
When looking back at this week, I've learned a few things. I now understand how much raw material, writing, and research there is in regards to the prison system and its history, and that in reality, prisons are a recent innovation. I've also learned that you cannot fully understand prison without understanding slavery. I have been able to learn how insanely interconnected the prison system is with slavery and America's history of working to keep black people down and oppressed. While it is overwhelming to learn, it has been an integral of me learning about such an important and often ignored topic.
One question that I have is how do we think prisons will evolve over the next century? While other countries have reformed their prisons and rehabilitation systems as years go by, the United States is notorious for having done basically nothing. Will this be the case in the upcoming years?
One question that I have is how do we think prisons will evolve over the next century? While other countries have reformed their prisons and rehabilitation systems as years go by, the United States is notorious for having done basically nothing. Will this be the case in the upcoming years?
You have watched 13th, right? If not please do. It fits rights with what you are learning. Are there any recent writings on the subject?
ReplyDeleteYes there is, actually. One of my favorites is "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander. It came out a couple of years ago. A very dense read, but so interesting and informative.
DeleteThat has been on my list. I will check it out this summer. Thanks for the tip!
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