Examination of historical perspectives focuses on the barbaric punitive philosophies and practices in England and the extent to which they were adopted by the American colonies. Early debates in the States are discussed, and the Auburn and Pennsylvania systems are contrasted. Prison development in the United States is outlined from the perspective of reform efforts. The negative outcomes of each reform era are noted as reflecting historical philosophical conflicts, and the political and economic issues inhibiting meaningful efforts for reform in each era are pointed out. Ongoing barriers to reform are itemized. Consideration is given to philosophical conflicts and the lack of agreement in society regarding the purpose of the penal sanction in the criminal justice system. The current state of correctional institutions and the extent to which they limit the potential for reform are discussed. The failure to examine issues from a systems perspective is examined, as are the sentencing debate and the limitations of determinate sentencing models. Finally, a reintegrative model is proposed which emphasizes the systems in which the offender interacts, including the family, the economy, peer groups, and the larger community. Fifty references are provided. (Author abstract modified)