This new book presents research on prison privatization in the US, with a focus on state prison privatization. The basic thrust is to research the privatization of a governmental function that is traditionally treated as a core function and involves the use of force. Specifically, the author researched the basic drives of prison privatization and the variation of the magnitude of state prison privatization among the 50 US states. The basic idea is to examine the influence of political and pragmatic factors to make sure the fundamental nature of the privatization of imprisonment, and further, of core governmental functions. The author’s general argument is that prison privatization was pushed forward by the changing political environment. Pragmatic and economic concerns or demands are derived from the political changes and are of secondary but still direct importance.This book has a detailed exploration of the whole picture of prison privatization, with rich data and analysis.