HISTORY OF PENOLOGY
This subcourse is designed to teach the philosophy and structure of the Army correctional system.
The lessons contained in this subcourse will assist in understanding the role of the US Army
corrections officer and noncommissioned officer and the management of US Army detention and
TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE:
Define the history and philosophy of corrections institutions and the evolution of
correctional activities in the US Army.
You will have this subcourse.
You must demonstrate knowledge of the task by scoring at least 70 percent
correct answers on the final subcourse examination.
When learning about modern confinement and correctional practices, it is best to start this study
with an understanding of past concepts and practices in dealing with prisoners. The terms, prison
reformatory, jail, and reform school are no doubt familiar. The fact that confinement in such
institutions is now the universal method of dealing with convicted offenders is accepted.
PART A - CRIME AND PUNISHMENT
1. The use of institutions for extended confinement of offenders is a relatively recent innovation. It
is chiefly a product of American influences. Until the later years of the eighteenth century, the
usual method of dealing with convicted offenders was to impose fines and some form of corporal
punishment. This ranged from public humiliation in the stocks or pillory; to whipping, branding,
and other forms of mutilation; to execution.
2. Crime and punishment, in the final analysis, is a means of social control. An organized social
group seeks redress for a wrong, an injury, or for a violation of law and custom. The taboos of
primitive man and the criminal codes of civilized societies are based on the doctrine that a
punishment can be found to fit the crime. In primitive times, however, the doctrine of punishment
was to placate the gods as well as to achieve some measure of social revenge. Today, perhaps, the
real psychological basis of punishment is social revenge. Retribution is largely motivated by the
desire of the person or society wronged or injured for revenge.