How a society treats its deviants is one measure of how humane it is. What would an examination of prisons and mental hospitals in the United States suggest regarding this standard?
A) The United States is the most humane society in the world.
B) Prisons are a last resort in dealing with deviants.
C) U.S. prisons emphasize prisoner rehabilitation and mental hospitals cure the mentally ill.
D) They are both used as warehouse for the unwanted.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A examination of prisons and mental hospitals in the United States suggests that they are both used as warehouses for the unwanted, rather than emphasizing rehabilitation or curing. This is particularly true for marginalized populations, such as people of color and those with mental health issues. The United States has a high rate of incarceration and institutionalization compared to other developed countries, which suggests that the system is not prioritizing humane and effective approaches to dealing with deviance.

How a Society Treats Its Deviants Is One Measure of How