The author's wisdom and experience of a half century of employment, research, and teaching in the field of corrections is reflected in this volume. He focuses on whether the vast sums we are spending to "get tough on crime" actually give us our money's worth, and uses what the best research evidence shows are the most profitable reactions to lawbreakers. Presented in a bright and readable style for undergraduates and the general public, this book discusses both general principles in reacting to crime, as well as a wealth of practical implications pertinent to specific types of offenses.