Just Let ’Em Out

Abstract This chapter proposes three axioms for ending mass incarceration rapidly and permanently. Drawing upon the insights of the “Iron Law of Prison Populations,” the three axioms are as follows: (1) reduce length-of-stay for incarceration; (2) restrict who goes to prison; and (3) make new penal policies retroactive. After defining and explaining these three axioms, this chapter considers issues of public safety, incapacitation, age, prison release mechanisms, and justice reinvestment. The chapter highlights a New Jersey program for prisoner release. As background for examining the topic of mass incarceration, the chapter touches on three issues: the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs, sentencing reform, and the purposes of imprisonment.