San Quentin Prison’s Scandinavian Makeover: Can a Humane Approach Reduce Recidivism?
The Bay Area’s oldest prison, San Quentin, is undergoing a significant transformation, drawing inspiration from Scandinavian prison models. This innovative project aims to prioritize dignity, autonomy, and reintegration for inmates, a philosophy demonstrably linked to lower recidivism rates in Scandinavian countries. Norway, for example, boasts a significantly lower two-year recidivism rate compared to the United States, highlighting the potential effectiveness of this approach.
This Scandinavian approach, often described as offering inmates a more humane and rehabilitative environment, contrasts sharply with the traditional American model. The hope is that by creating a more respectful and supportive atmosphere, inmates will be better equipped to successfully reintegrate into society upon release, ultimately reducing the likelihood of reoffending.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker