SOC 337LEC—Sociology of Punishment

Recently, crime rates in the U.S. have dropped, yet the prison population has grown rapidly. We explore this paradox by examining theories of crime and punishment, changes in the nature and extent of American punishment over time, and socio-economic implications of such changes. Students will develop a critical understanding of hot button penal issues, ranging from the death penalty and mandatory minimum sentencing, to the treatment of people who are incarcerated. Students will also develop the skills to evaluate the efficacy of penal reforms.