MA Research Paper

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Sociology

Supervisor

Michael Haan

Abstract

Incarceration is common to nation-states of all types, yet its use varies greatly. What accounts for these variations? Are certain countries simply more criminogenic than others, or are more complex relations at play? With a sample of 118 countries, and the use of linear regression, the impact of social development, neoliberal politics, and social inequality are explored. Little to no support was found for social development hypotheses, while strong support was found for political variables. Contrary to previous research, unemployment was found to be negatively associated with the use of imprisonment. The relationship between crime and incarceration was discussed and a positive association was noted between the two.

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