Question

Do you think the Pennsylvania system of prisons was too cruel or harsh or could modern prisons benefit from revisiting this early system? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

The Pennsylvania system of prisons, also known as the separate system, was considered too harsh and cruel. Modern prisons could benefit from aspects of the system but should prioritize a more humane approach to incarceration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Pennsylvania system of prisons, also known as the separate system, was a penitentiary system introduced in the 1800s. It emphasized solitary confinement as a means of encouraging prisoners to reflect on their crimes and repent. While the intention of the Pennsylvania system was to promote rehabilitation, it was criticized for being too harsh and cruel. Modern prisons have moved away from the Pennsylvania system and instead focus on a combination of punishment and rehabilitation.

Modern prisons could benefit from revisiting aspects of the Pennsylvania system, such as providing opportunities for prisoners to reflect on their actions and engage in self-improvement. However, it is important to strike a balance between punishment and rehabilitation, considering the mental health and well-being of prisoners. A more humane approach to incarceration, including access to education, vocational training, and mental health services, can help in reducing recidivism rates and successfully reintegrating prisoners into society.

Overall, while the Pennsylvania system of prisons may have had good intentions, it was considered too harsh and cruel. Modern prisons can learn from the past, incorporating elements of rehabilitation while ensuring the humane treatment of inmates.

Answer 2

Answer:I do think the Pennsylvania system was too harsh. They was criticized for being too costly because they wanted to focus on solitary confinement. They was also criticized for the inmates physical and mental health because of solitary confinement as well. It seem as if they was going off a method of being a workshop. The system was even impractical. I don’t think modern prisons would be able to benefit off this system. While it’s true that prisons are making money off the amount of inmates, mental help should be offered as well. Physical help should be offered too. I’ve seen plenty of stories where inmates would die from their injuries in prison and no physical help is given such as fighting or even a female inmate giving birth.

Step-by-step explanation: