Punishments credited as forerunners of parole are identified, and an overview of sanctioning policy in different historical eras is provided. The latter discussion considers the mechanisms of punishment as well as their justifications. Sanctioning policies are presented as a function of philosophical assumptions about crime and criminals, as well as a reflection of societal conditions. Historical accounts and current material on the parole process are presented. This discussion suggests that, in addition to social control concerns, organizational or bureaucratic considerations are central to understanding parole operations, particularly as evidenced in parole rules and regulations. Significant criticisms of current sanctioning policy are considered, including allegations against the rehabilitative ideal, the indeterminate sentence, and parole. The debate that led several States to adopt determinate sentencing and restrictions on parole is reviewed. Some of the criticism of parole are challenged, and questions are raised about the implications of using determinate sentencing as a solution to major correctional problems. The philosophical bases of determinate sentencing are discussed, as are the serious problems inherent in this punishment policy. Finally, determinate sentencing is discussed as an ideological legitimation of sanctioning policy. Extensive notes accompany each chapter, and a comprehensive bibliography is provided, along with a subject index. (Author summary modified)