1. Davis begins her argument with a summary of Michel Foucault (one of the leading authorities who has written
theoretical scholarship on prisons). How does Davis use this summary of Foucault in her argument? How does
Davis evaluate Foucault's ideas?
2. Much of the middle section in Davis's argument gives historical grounding of American punishment. What
subclaims are being supported by this grounding? As a reading strategy, focus your attention on one detailed
historical point, as presented by Davis. Look in the paragraph(s) immediately preceding or following this point
and you will generally find a subclaim.
3. Why does Davis focus on history? What does this evidence have to do with the prison system in
contemporary America?
4. What does Davis advocate at the end of her argument? What grounding does she give for this advocative
claim to try to persuade her readers?