MINDFUL PUNISHMENT: What to do about the South African penal system, and why

Penal reform is crucial to South Africa’s long term crime control and criminal justice agendas. This article shows how the penal system could respond more ethically without an overwhelming investment of new resources. There are two strategies South Africa can employ to create a ‘mindful’ penal system. First, the length of sentences must be reduced. Second, a viable new system of community based (non-prison) penalties must be created. Neither strategy will be easy, but doing one without the other will fail

The Value Of Religion In Prison: An Inmate Perspective

In recent years, religious programming for inmates is being applauded by some as the latest answer to recidivism. Policy makers and correctional officials alike are among the supporters of these programs that go well beyond conventional prison ministry. The emphasis in promoting the expansion of religion-based programs indeed lies in the claim that faith in a higher power prevents relapse into criminal activity better than secular strategies. Whether this claim can be consistently validated remains unclear. Moreover, the sustained focus on religion\u27s utility in preventing future criminal conduct diminishes religion\u27s immediate value to the inmate during the term of incarceration. With this latter function in mind, this article reports findings from qualitative inquiries conducted in several prisons nationwide. Designed to reveal the meaning of religion to inmates, the study calls attention to the role of religion in preventing devaluation and fostering survival. © 2000, Sage Publications, Inc. All rights reserved