Behind Bars, Beyond Means: Why Incarceration is the Ultimate Form of Poverty in the U.S.

Authors

Samuel Bohn, Brigham Young University - ProvoFollow
Ella Paligo, Brigham Young University - ProvoFollow
Benjamin White, Brigham Young University - ProvoFollow

Files

Keywords

incarceration, poverty, rehabilitation, reform, christianity, islam, religion, prison, racism

Abstract

This Fulton Mentored Student Research Conference poster examines the relationship between incarceration and poverty in the United States, where currently over 2 million individuals are imprisoned, constituting 20% of the global prison population. Comprehensive analysis reveals that incarceration exacerbates poverty in the United States through the stigmatization of ex-felons and intergenerational poverty— both perpetuated by systemic exclusions. Drawing on Christian and Islamic principles, this poster highlights the universal call for justice and compassion for these marginalized individuals. The proposed reforms emphasize investment in rehabilitation programs, sentencing reform, and addressing structural inequities. Ultimately, by integrating research-based policies and collectively advocating for systemic change, American society can mitigate the adverse effects of incarceration on individuals and communities, fostering bipartisan economic empowerment and social equity.

BYU ScholarsArchive Citation

Bohn, Samuel; Paligo, Ella; and White, Benjamin, "Behind Bars, Beyond Means: Why Incarceration is the Ultimate Form of Poverty in the U.S." (2024). FHSS Mentored Research Conference. 373.
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/fhssconference_studentpub/373

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2024-04-15

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

History

University Standing at Time of Publication

Freshman

Course

Honors 226

Copyright Use Information

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