Running on Empty: Creativity and the Correctional Agenda

This article presents a critique of contemporary correctional theories and practices, alleging that a paucity of creative ideas characterizes the field of corrections. It takes note of correctional conservatism, financial strains, and the lack of clear, well-articulated, and shared goals plaguing contemporary corrections. The article considers a number of forces that have contributed to this state of affairs. Finally, it offers some suggestions for regenerating the “correctional imagination.”