Date of Award
5-1999
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Sociology
First Advisor
William Burger, Ph.D.
Second Advisor
Debra S. Kelley, Ph.D.
Third Advisor
Kenneth B. Perkins, Ph.D.
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to apply and extend the Weberian and Ritzerian typologies of formal rationality and “McDonaldization” to explain the development of Virginia’s sentencing guidelines system, recent changes in probation and parole policies, and changes in Virginia’s corrections laws. The theories of formal rationality and bureaucracy were utilized in a qualitative methodological approach. The present research suggested that the previously mentioned developments and changes were not a repudiation of earlier rehabilitative models nor were they an effort to move toward punitive correctional models. Rather, the changes were implicitly rationalized or “McDonaldized” the affected systems and procedures.
Recommended Citation
Simmons, Jr., Edward G., "Probation Policies, Corrections Laws, and Sentencing Guidelines Systems: An Application of Weber's and Ritzer's Typologies" (1999). Theses & Honors Papers. 205.
https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/etd/205
