Book Quote by Peter Moskos
“I say a few good things about Canada in the book, you know. Americans are weird, though. We refuse to look at other countries. Start with Canadians - I want to think you aren't that different, so why can't we do our incarceration policies more like Canada? If we still had a 1970 level of incarceration which was the same as Canada's then and now, I never would have written this.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast, 2023, discussion on criminal justice reform
The speaker contrasts American and Canadian incarceration policies, suggesting Canada’s approach could improve US outcomes
In simple terms: America’s prison system is flawed; Canada’s model is better
Key Takeaway
Consider adopting Canadian-style reforms
Themes
criminal justice
policy comparison
incarceration reform
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- legislative reform
- public opinion
- academic research
Key Concepts
Comparative analysis
systemic critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of Canada’s system could be adapted?
- Are cultural differences a barrier?
A Different Perspective
Canada’s lower incarceration rates may not address all underlying issues
