The article discusses alternative punishments in light of the growing disenchantment with incarceration, and the view that today's prison system may be more of a placebo than a panacea for crime. It discusses the major demographic changes in the correctional population; changes in crime rates, enforcement and sentencing; and costs and benefits associated with the current level of incarceration. It also introduces some of the most prevalent innovations, including electronic monitoring, intensive supervisory monitoring and parole, and monetary fines. In addition, the article examines alternatives to incarceration for drug-abusing offenders, including diversion from prosecution conditioned on drug treatment, intensive supervisory probation, boot camps, coerced abstinence, and drug courts. Finally, the article addresses constitutional and institutional challenges to alternative sentences; the challenges presented to the correctional system by female offenders; and alternatives to incarceration for offenders guilty of nonviolent crimes. Notes, figures