Final answer:
The efficacy of harsh sentencing as a deterrent to criminal behavior is debated, with evidence on both sides. While some argue that such measures can deter crime, others point to more effective alternatives like rehabilitation or diversion programs particularly for less serious crimes and non-violent misdemeanors. The 'tough-on-crime' era has resulted in mass incarceration and significant social and racial disparities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question touches on the relationship between the severity of sentences and the likelihood of offenders committing crime again once released. It is commonly argued that harsh sentencing laws can act as deterrents, and there are some examples of this, such as the 5% reduction in gun crime when sentences for gun crimes were extended in New York City. Conversely, there is evidence suggesting that certain approaches, like 'Scared Straight' programs, may increase the likelihood of criminal behavior in at-risk youth.
Controversies persist in how to deal appropriately with the incarcerated. Several methods, such as rehabilitation through therapy or vocational programs, have been shown to be more effective in reducing recidivism than merely punitive measures. There is, however, no one-size-fits-all approach. Effective strategies may vary by offender type: while incarceration may work for high-risk offenders, alternative treatments might be preferable for less serious or non-violent misdemeanors. Moreover, a result of the 'tough-on-crime' policies of the 1980s and 1990s, including mandatory minimum sentencing and 'three strikes' laws, has contributed to an aging prison population and mass incarceration.
Finally, the broader societal implications of incarceration policies cannot be ignored. Racial disparities have become glaringly apparent, particularly within the context of mass incarceration that disproportionately affects African American communities. Incarceration prevents individuals from contributing to their communities and families and often hampers employment opportunities post-release, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and social stagnation with pronounced racial inequities.