Lesson 1 History of Penology

The Army Correctional System
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LESSON 1

HISTORY OF PENOLOGY

OVERVIEW

LESSON DESCRIPTION:

This subcourse is designed to teach the philosophy and structure of the Army correctional system.

The lessons contained in this subcourse will assist in understanding the role of the US Army

corrections officer and noncommissioned officer and the management of US Army detention and

correctional facilities.

TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE:

ACTION:

Define the history and philosophy of corrections institutions and the evolution of

correctional activities in the US Army.

CONDITION:

You will have this subcourse.

STANDARD:

You must demonstrate knowledge of the task by scoring at least 70 percent

correct answers on the final subcourse examination.

REFERENCES: None.

INTRODUCTION

When learning about modern confinement and correctional practices, it is best to start this study

with an understanding of past concepts and practices in dealing with prisoners. The terms, prison

reformatory, jail, and reform school are no doubt familiar. The fact that confinement in such

institutions is now the universal method of dealing with convicted offenders is accepted.

PART A - CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

1. The use of institutions for extended confinement of offenders is a relatively recent innovation. It

is chiefly a product of American influences. Until the later years of the eighteenth century, the

usual method of dealing with convicted offenders was to impose fines and some form of corporal

punishment. This ranged from public humiliation in the stocks or pillory; to whipping, branding,

and other forms of mutilation; to execution.

2. Crime and punishment, in the final analysis, is a means of social control. An organized social

group seeks redress for a wrong, an injury, or for a violation of law and custom. The taboos of

primitive man and the criminal codes of civilized societies are based on the doctrine that a

punishment can be found to fit the crime. In primitive times, however, the doctrine of punishment

was to placate the gods as well as to achieve some measure of social revenge. Today, perhaps, the

real psychological basis of punishment is social revenge. Retribution is largely motivated by the

desire of the person or society wronged or injured for revenge.