"Anyone going to jail in this country has to adapt to a cynical, corrupt, antisocial lifestyle"

  A Guardian reporter, speaking about England, wrote: "Anyone going to jail in this country has to adapt to a cynical, corrupt, antisocial lifestyle which does little to encourage change in post-prison behaviour" (James, 2015). This quote implies that prison culture is notably different from the culture at large, and though it speaks specifically of England, we can apply it to U.S. culture as well. To learn more about the prison lifestyle, also known as the convict code, view this video: The Convict Code (8:55) Take a position. Do you agree or disagree that the convict code differs significantly from our culture's moral code? First, title your initial post either "The convict code reflects our culture's moral code" or "The convict code does not reflect our culture's moral code." Then, using the information from the resource above as well as from your weekly readings, make your case. Consider the following: What do you see as the key elements of the convict code in prison culture? What are the key elements of our culture's moral code? Are there differences as well as similarities? Do some subcultures of the United States reflect the convict code more closely than others? In response to your peers, consider their arguments and describe whether you agree or disagree with them. Consider the following: Are there parts of their arguments that you agree with? If so, which ones? If not, which parts do you disagree with? Be specific. Is there something that your peers said that made you reevaluate your position, even slightly?  

Sample Solution

  The Convict Code Does Not Reflect Our Culture's Moral Code The convict code is a set of unwritten rules that govern behavior in prison. It is often seen as a reflection of the culture at large, but there are significant differences between the two. The key elements of the convict code include:
  • Do not snitch: This is the most important rule in the convict code. Snitches are seen as weak and untrustworthy, and they are often punished severely.

Full Answer Section

  The Convict Code Does Not Reflect Our Culture's Moral Code The convict code is a set of unwritten rules that govern behavior in prison. It is often seen as a reflection of the culture at large, but there are significant differences between the two. The key elements of the convict code include:
  • Do not snitch: This is the most important rule in the convict code. Snitches are seen as weak and untrustworthy, and they are often punished severely.
  • Take care of your own: Prisoners are expected to help each other out, especially when it comes to things like food, protection, and information.
  • Don't be a punk: This rule refers to maintaining a tough exterior and not showing weakness. Prisoners who are seen as weak are often targeted by other prisoners.
  • Be loyal to your gang: If you are in a gang, you are expected to be loyal to your fellow gang members, even if they have done something wrong.
The key elements of our culture's moral code include:
  • Honesty: We are taught to be honest, both in our words and in our actions.
  • Integrity: We are taught to have integrity, which means doing the right thing even when it is difficult.
  • Respect: We are taught to respect others, regardless of their differences.
  • Compassion: We are taught to be compassionate, which means understanding and caring for others.
As you can see, there are some similarities between the convict code and our culture's moral code. Both codes emphasize the importance of honesty, integrity, and respect. However, there are also some significant differences. The convict code is much more focused on self-preservation and survival. It is also more tolerant of violence and aggression. In my opinion, the convict code does not reflect our culture's moral code. The convict code is a product of the harsh environment of prison, where people are forced to do whatever it takes to survive. Our culture's moral code, on the other hand, is based on the belief that there are certain things that are right and wrong, regardless of the circumstances. I believe that it is important to distinguish between the convict code and our culture's moral code. The convict code is a survival mechanism, but it is not a moral code. If we want to create a more just and humane society, we need to base our values on our culture's moral code, not on the convict code. Additional Thoughts In addition to the differences I have already mentioned, there are a few other ways in which the convict code differs from our culture's moral code. First, the convict code is much more hierarchical. There is a clear pecking order in prison, and those who are at the top of the hierarchy have a lot of power. In our culture, on the other hand, there is more emphasis on equality. Second, the convict code is much more violent. Violence is often used as a way to resolve disputes or to assert dominance. In our culture, violence is generally seen as a last resort. Finally, the convict code is much more materialistic. Prisoners are often motivated by material possessions, such as cigarettes, drugs, and electronics. In our culture, there is more emphasis on non-materialistic values, such as love, friendship, and family. I believe that it is important to understand the differences between the convict code and our culture's moral code. By understanding these differences, we can better understand the challenges that prisoners face and the obstacles that they must overcome in order to reintegrate into society.

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