This centennial collection of essays and original research studies captures the varied spectrum of philosophies and concerns of the Board and staff of the National Council on Crime and Delinquency (NCCD) over the past century . The criminological experts represented in this volume are renowned for their study and research into the far reaches of this field of study. As a chronicle of the NCCD’s development, editors Barry Krisberg, Susan Marchionna, and Christopher Baird include some of the most groundbreaking material to come out of the workings of this unique American institution.

The State of Corrections Today: A Triumph of Pluralistic Ignorance

The state of corrections today: A triumph of pluralistic ignorance
AllenBreed

The task of summarizing public perceptions of corrections is a formidable one. I am reminded of the story of an ancient Eastern monarch who once instructed his wise men to invent for him a phrase that would be true and appropriate for all times and in all situations. They withdrew and deliberated at length, finally returning to the king with this saying, “And this too shall pass away.”

Of one thing we can be sure: Public opinion, whatever it is now, shall pass away. Whatever conclusions we reach today and tomorrow should be based on two principles. First, public opinion is constantly changing. Second, remembering Von Schiller's ...

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