Todd R. Clear, one of the country's leading experts in the study of corrections, and George F. Cole, considered by many as the "founding father" of modern criminal justice study, have combined talents once again for the new Sixth Edition of their market-leading AMERICAN CORRECTIONS. A great author team, Clear's expertise in corrections complements Cole's organizational view of the system. Together, they present a well-rounded, balanced approach to corrections. Clear and Cole takes a sociological and humanistic approach to corrections. It treats institutional and alternative sanctions in a balanced fashion and offers a look at the system from the perspective of both the corrections worker and the offender. It also presents the concept of corrections as a "system" of interconnected organizations and carries this theme throughout the book. While this approach appeals to both sociologists and criminal justice types alike, it is particularly appealing to a growing portion of the market: the professors with sociological backgrounds who are now teaching the introduction to corrections course. From a more practical standpoint, many find this text appealing because it provides comprehensive, thorough coverage without being overwhelming. At 22 chapters and 560 pages, it is very compatible with standard, semester-long courses. Such effective compatibility continues in the Sixth Edition with a new visually engaging four-color interior design.