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Why does prison reform occur and when does it work? This class explores the politics of prison reform throughout the globe. We will explore cases in which carceral policies shifted in a more punitive direction as well as cases in which reforms attempted to create safer, less crowded, and more humane prisons. We will examine the ways that state actors facilitate or hinder the implementation of prison policies. And, given the course's global focus, will also explore how non state actors like gangs influence the politics of reform and its implementation.