Independent journalism like this only exists because readers fund it. We’re behind our end of year goal of $100,000. If you value journalism that answers to readers, not billionaires or corporate advertisers, now is the moment to help.
We're behind, but you can help: This week only a generous donor has offered to MATCH every gift. 2X your impact →
Get the latest stories from The Prospect delivered right to your inbox for the in-depth analysis you need.
The latest stories from the Prospect—delivered straight to your inbox for the in-depth analysis you need.
by
Ezra Klein
A disturbing factoid from Harper’s Index:
Percentage of American adults held in either prison or mental institutions in 1953 and today, respectively: 0.67, 0.68
Percentage of these adults in 1953 who were in mental institutions: 75
Percentage today who are in prisons: 97
And I’m sure they’re all better when they get out.
Ezra Klein is a former Prospect writer and current editor-in-chief at Vox. His work has appeared in the LA Times, The Guardian, The Washington Monthly, The New Republic, Slate, and The Columbia Journalism Review. He’s been a commentator on MSNBC, CNN, NPR, and more. More by Ezra Klein
