PRISON USA: Reflections on Correctional Facilities in the 'Land of the Free'

Kris:   America has 5% of the world’s population, but 25% of its prison 
        population. Is that not ironic in for a country claiming to be 
        “the land of the free”?

Ted:    Indeed. Freedom is but a myth for many segments of its population.

Tim:    (sighing) The prison industry today resembles the slavery industry of 
        yesterday. Those behind bars are systematically exploited, underpaid, 
        and deprived of basic rights.

Terri:  Sure. However, we must not forget what is profitable for a few is 
        often deleterious for society overall.

Sam:    Agreed. However, but is there actually any way to end this dystopia?

Ted:    (pausing) Hmm. In my view, America has become so dysfunctional that 
        it's no longer redeemable. Perhaps a radically different approach
        to governance is needed?

Kris:   Or perhaps computers could do a better job than mere humans? History 
        reveals that humans are often irrational and short-sighted. Perhaps 
        cool, dispassionate silicon chips would offer a better solution . . .


=================================================================================
from _AmeriSong: Poetry, Art, & Dialogs about Amerika_ by T Newfields
SUMMARY:  Some thoughts about the American penal system.
KEYWORDS: US penal system, systematic incarceration, lock-up USA, American criminal justice system

Author: T Newfields [Nitta Hirou / Huáng Yuèwǔ] (b. 1955)
Begun: 2018 in Yokohama, Japan / Finished: 2019 in Yokohama, Japan
Creative Commons License: Attribution. {{CC-BY-4.0}} Granted

< LAST    http://www.tnewfields.info/AmeriSong/ff2.htm
  TOC     http://www.tnewfields.info/AmeriSong/index.html
  NEXT >  http://www.tnewfields.info/AmeriSong/oneview.htm