To the Point
Should We Let More Prisoners Take College Classes?
The 1980's were the Era of Rehabilitation in American prisons. There were 350 college degree programs for inmates nationwide. In the 1990's, the country got "tough on crime;" it was an Era of Retribution, and opportunities for education were withdrawn. Now, at some prisons, some inmates are being allowed to take classes again.
By Warren Olney • • 9m ListenThe 1980's were the Era of Rehabilitation in American prisons. There were 350 college degree programs for inmates nationwide. In the 1990's, the country got "tough on crime;" it was an Era of Retribution, and opportunities for education were withdrawn. Now, at some prisons, some inmates are being allowed to take classes again. We hear from one of them — and one of his teachers.
Photo: publik15
Warren Olney
former KCRW broadcaster
Benjamin Gottlieb
Reporter, Fill-in Host
Andrea Brody
Senior Producer, KCRW's Life Examined and To the Point podcast
Katie Cooper
Producer, 'One year Later'
John J. Lennon
Contributing writer, Marshall Project; contributing editor, Esquire; adviser, Prison Journalism Project
Doran Larson
Hamilton College