Synthesizing the latest scholarship in law and the social sciences on criminal sentencing and corrections, this book provides a thorough, balanced, and accessible survey of the major policy issues in these fields of persistent public interest and political debate.¿ Provides readers with an accessible introduction to important, timely topics of public debate¿ Maintains a neutral, balanced perspective on a subject often a matter of heated partisanship¿ Reveals the subtle connections between different aspects of the criminal justice system that are often missed in policy discussions¿ Synthesizes leading academic work in law and the social sciences¿ Provides a balanced assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of significant reform proposals