Prison abolitionist theory

Prison abolitionist theory advocates for ending the reliance on prisons as a primary means of addressing social issues and promoting justice. Instead, it emphasizes transforming societal structures to prevent crime through social support, community-based solutions, and addressing root causes like inequality and injustice. The theory questions whether prisons effectively reduce harm or promote healing, aiming to create a more equitable system that focuses on accountability, restorative justice, and human dignity, rather than punishment and incarceration. It seeks a fundamental shift in how society deals with harm and conflict, prioritizing prevention and community well-being over punitive measures.