2017

Abstract: Researchers are increasingly interested in gaining a better understanding of the economic, social, political, and criminal justice factors related to imprisonment. This study analyzes several of these factors by examining the use of prison sentences in the 100 wealthiest countries. Consistent with previous empirical studies, we find that countries with common law legal systems, as well as those that have abolished the death penalty, have relied more heavily on imprisonment; the same is true for countries with higher homicide rates. With regard to social and political factors, countries with fewer social problems have also relied more heavily on prison sentences. This is the case for states with more significant political conflicts, greater political competition, and those that have experienced fraudulent elections. These findings contribute to the ever-growing body of cross-national research that has led to a better understanding of sentencing practices. This study also addresses several theoretical issues.

Keywords:transactional research, punishment, prison