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A University of Chicago meta analysis , which is the most robust criminological study in history has brought to light what many have long suspected. Prisons simply do not work in their stated purposes of rehabilitating offenders, nor do they increase public safety. In fact they somewhat decrease safety and make crime somewhat worse.
From the study.
"The null effect of custodial compared with noncustodial sanctions is considered a “criminological fact.” Incarceration cannot be justified on the grounds it affords public safety by decreasing recidivism."
In other words, the science is very clear. Prisons dont work. They dont make society safer, they dont reduce crime and they dont have any moral justification.
Prison abolition as a policy goal isnt radical, its not an idealist pipe dream. Its simply understanding the facts. Retributive justice is a failure. Punishments dont make people better. Rehabilitative approaches also have strong evidence that they reduce repeat offenses, make society safer and are more humane.
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