Based on chapter 2 of Alexander, M. (2012). The New Jim Crow: Mass incarceration in the age of
colorblindness. The New Press: New York.
Then respond to the following questions:
- What are the myths and assumptions that the general public believes about the criminal justice system?
- What are the problems with pretextual traffic stops?
- Why do police departments in the various states prioritize drug arrests?
- Both the police and prosecutors have a great deal of discretion in their roles. How has this discretion been
used? - What do we feel is a reasonable response to those in possession of drugs currently defined as illegal? To
those currently selling drugs that are currently defined as illegal?
Sample Solution