How do twenty-first century penal systems compare to those of the nineteeth century?

Answer 1

For the most part, in the old days penal systems would punish convicted criminals. Now, the trend is to try to reform them. In the US, they used to be called "prisoners". Now they're called "inmates". Other countries still punish their convicts, but watchdog agencies such as Amnesty International (which didn't exist years ago), stick their noses into it and generate bad publicity against treatment they consider to be inhumane.

Answer 2

Much better. One major difference that comes to mind, at least in the u.s., is that during the 1800's torture and unusual punishment were common practice. Of course you can find that in modern prisons but it is highly illegal. Also, in the western u.s., there was a good chance that you would just be executed without a trial, even if you didn't kill someone else.

The modern system is far from perfect but is way better than 200 years ago.

Answer 3

1. C21st penal systems are more concerned with rehabilitation of prisoners.

2. Also concerned with prisoner intergration into mainstream society after release....all kinds of programs thru half way houses are now available.

3. Evolution of prisoner rights...eg access to medical attention when needed and so forth....

Answer 4

They tend to be more liberal- in the nineteenth century conditions were harsh and often brutal and sometimes adversely affected the health of the prisoners.

Answer 5

More blacks in Twenty-First.