Why does the United States have the highest incarceration rate in the world? Many forces play a role in this problem. One voice that offers a unique view is Iranian-American author Hassan Nemazee. In his book Persia, Politics & Prison, he shares his personal story and highlights flaws within the justice system. His account reveals how deep issues drive the cycle of imprisonment and why reform is so urgent.
A key factor is the plea bargain system. Most cases never go to trial. Instead, people are pressured to accept a deal. The risk of facing a much longer sentence in court feels too high. This means many plead guilty, even when they may not be. The process helps move cases quickly, but it also fills prisons at a rapid pace. It is a system built on fear rather than fairness.
Harsh sentencing laws add to the problem. Mandatory minimums force judges to hand down strict penalties. These laws were designed to show zero tolerance for crime. In practice, they remove the ability to judge each case fairly. The result is longer sentences and overcrowded prisons. The “tough on crime” approach may sound effective, but in reality, it often traps people in a cycle of punishment without a path to change.
Another root cause is the lack of rehabilitation. Many facilities do not offer strong education or job training. Without these tools, people struggle to rebuild their lives after release. If you leave prison without skills, work experience, or support, the chance of reoffending is high. Addiction treatment, mental health care, and mentorship programs are often limited, leaving people unprepared for life on the outside. When prisons fail to guide people toward growth, they become revolving doors.
Life after prison brings new hurdles. A criminal record follows you everywhere. Employers may refuse to hire you. Landlords might turn you away. Even simple opportunities are blocked. Families can also feel the weight of stigma. When society leaves so few doors open, some feel forced back into crime. This cycle hurts individuals, families, and entire communities, creating damage that lasts for generations.
Mass incarceration is not just about crime. It is about policies, practices, and missed chances to help people turn their lives around. The U.S. system often values control over correction, leaving little room for true justice.
For a closer look at these issues through a personal lens, visit Hassan Nemazee’s website. His book Persia, Politics & Prison shares a powerful story of survival and reflection. It is both a warning and a call for change in how America approaches justice.
