The Reformatory System in the United States; Reports Prepared for the International Prison Commission (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900. Excerpt: ... A STUDY OF PRISON MANAGEMENT.1 By Oh Aulk.m Dudley Warner. Our failure in the handling of criminals with reference to their reformation, and the proportionate security of society and the decrease of taxation, is due largely to the fact that we have considered the problem as physical, not psychological. The effort has been to improve prisons and the physical condition and environment of prisoners. This effort has been directed by sentiment, rather than upon principles of economy and a stndy of human nature. It has been assumed that if convicts were treated with more kindness, if they were lodged in prisons well warmed and well ventilated, light and airy, in cells more roomy and comfortable, if they had better food and more privileges (graduated on good deportment), they would be more likely to reform and to lead honest lives after their discharge. This move was dictated by philanthropic motives, and I am far from saying that it is all wrong. But it has not produced the results that were expected, and it seems to me that the revolt in the public mind against what is called the "coddling" system is justified by facts and results. The modern model prison is a costly and architecturally imposing structure; it is safer to lodge in and freer from odors than most hotels; its cells are well warmed, lighted with gas, and comfortable; it has a better dietary than most of its inmates are accustomed to; it has bathrooms, a library, often large and well selected; an admirably arranged hospital; a cheerful chapel, garnished with frescoes and improving texts; there are Sunday services and Sunday schools; there is a chaplain who visits the prisoners to distribute books and tracts, and converse on religious topics; there are lectures and readings and occasional musical con...