POL 131 - Politics of Imprisonment

Upper Division

An examination of the factors behind the prison boom of the last decodes and its timid retraction. This course integrates academic studies on incarceration with tours of incarcerating institutions (San Quentin State Prison, a county jail, and a juvenile justice center) and direct interaction with present and formerly incarcerated individuals, criminal justice professionals, and activists working for prisoner rights. Major themes include the relation of incarceration to race, poverty, gender, and the links between government policy, for-profit businesses, and human rights organizations.

Term Offered
Offered in alternate years.

Fee
Course fee $40.

Additional Notes
Course is not open to first-years.

Course credits: 1