What percentage of the population ‘resides’ in prison? What was the percentage last year? 5 years ago? 15 years ago? 30 years ago?
Was there ever a white majority in the prisons?
Just some thoughts that go through my mind when I’m at my mind-numbing job…
I would say so. Some quick research reveals the current US population growth is between .7% and 1.8% per year, while the US prison polulation appears to be growing at the rate of somwhere between 3.5% and 8.8% per year. That’s quite a difference in growth rates. Some more information here.
I think the incarceration rates went up in the 1990s because of Clinton’s policies of getting criminals off the streets by throwing everyone in jail (except himself, of course). The USA has the greatest percentage of its population behind bars. Is this policy of just warehousing people in cells really working?
I’m hoping that Martha Stewart will bring more attention to some of these problems now that she’s been released.
James, in two minutes Ive seen two messages from you that have nothing to do with GQ. This forum is specifically for factual answers, random opinions that just bring on flame wars are not welcome.
JamesB.
This is General Questions. We try to keep answers as factual as possible.
If you wish to criticize Clinton, take it to the Pit
If you want to know if the current prison policy is working, ask this in Great Debates.
samclem GQ moderator
Yes, the incarceration rates went up significantly during the Clinton years. This is a factual answer to the question posed. Apparently, perjury does not mandate jail time.
Now, here’s my opinion based on experience. Having been involved somewhat in a prison ministry, I can tell you that society’s mentality of locking people up and throwing away the key is questionable in terms of effectiveness.
here are some historical records going back to the 1910s. The absolute figure seem to be differnet from QEDs links, so take either with grain of salt. The big jump started in the 80s, the 90s continued that trend