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Instructor: Jim Thomas Room: TBA Thursday: Homepage: Homepage We will examine institutions and field services in public and private sectors of corretions and address historical and empirical approaches to the analysis of policy and correctional effectiveness. We will focus on theoretical approaches, including the neo-classical challenge to rehabilitation and corrections case law. In addition, we will critically examine the philosophy and origins of the corrections system in the U.S., the contemporary "prison crisis," the social organization of the prison culture, and the prospects for the future. Although a "corrections" course, special attention will be given to the social and historical context of prisons. Examples will focus heavily on Illinois prisons. Course Requirements: The course is intended as a seminar in which everybody participates through discussion. Grades will be assessed on the basis of class discussion, oral presentations, and one final research paper. Oral presentations will be done in groups of two or three on specific readings. Prison tours, while not required, are strongly encouraged. Assigned Readings. Michel Foucault Disciline and Punish James Jacobs Stateville Joan Petersilia When Prisoners Come Home Jeffrey Reiman And the Poor get Prison Sullivan and Tifft Restorative Justice Gary Cornelius The American Jail Sheryl Kleinman Opposing Ambitions Net Links/Readings TBA Class Handouts TBA GRADING Two Class presentations (100 points (50 points EACH) Final term paper (150 points) Midterm Exam (100 points) Final Exam (100 points) Presentations (2) (50 points) Class participation (100 points) WebBoard (100 points) TOTAL = 650 ATTENDANCE Class participation is critical. This will be graded on the degree to which people contribute to class discussions, demonstrate reading of course material, and exhibit understanding of issues. Attendance is part of participation. Two or more absences without compelling reasons may result in reduced grade. It may sometimes be necessary to change the course assignments listed on the assignments page. These changes will be announced, and you are responsible for knowing what goes on in class. We will be taking several field trips. Participants will be drawn by lot. Because of the many trips, class meetings will be adjusted accordingly. Final papers must be turned in no later than ***
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