Final answer:
The U.S. criminal justice system differs from other countries primarily in its use of mass incarceration, particularly for less severe crimes, and the lengthier sentences imposed. Over two million people are incarcerated in the U.S., reflecting 'get tough on crime' policies and issues with systemic racism. The system is composed of the police, courts, and corrections, with debates ongoing about its effectiveness and fairness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The U.S. criminal justice system is unique compared to other countries in several ways. It has a significant reliance on mass incarceration as the main tool for crime prevention. In contrast to many European countries, the U.S. has a higher tendency to incarcerate individuals for less serious offenses, such as passing bad checks or possession of small amounts of marijuana. Additionally, American criminals often face far longer prison sentences compared to their European counterparts, a disparity partially due to the more frequent occurrence of gun-related crimes in America that generally carry lengthier sentences.
The U.S. has experienced an explosion in its prison and jail populations since the 1980s, driven by 'get tough on crime' policies. With over two million people incarcerated, the United States has the highest number of incarcerated individuals worldwide and one of the highest incarceration rates. Furthermore, the criminal justice system is heavily burdened by historical and ongoing issues with racism affecting law enforcement outcomes.
The American criminal justice system comprises three branches: the police, the courts, and the corrections system. Each of these plays a distinct role in enforcing the legal code. There is an ongoing debate on the effectiveness of incarceration as a deterrent to crime, with arguments both for and against the harshness and fairness of the justice system. The debate includes discussions on the death penalty and the rehabilitation of inmates.