One of the main stumbling blocks I see, is the lack of a support structure when they get out. They have good intentions, and do good for a little while, but then they end up falling in with the same friends and peer group that contributed to their prior incarceration.
Discussion
Yes! Environment is so important in the pursuit of change.
Who a person surrounds themself with makes a large difference. Willpower and determination have the ability to overcome this, in my opinion, but that is probably an exception to the rule. My advice for every single person that will listen is, get away from those people that helped you get incarcerated.
I know both types of people, that go back to the same environment and that don't. And there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
I would ask, is there a way to teach willpower? I think that skill is ultimately what will let you control your own future.
Perhaps willpower can be taught through virtue ethics. As you referenced earlier, they have a moral code but is it the correct one that is best for them and others in their environment?
Perhaps living up to specific virtues would help, like Stoicism. Also, a spiritual belief system is said to be the principal cornerstone in living a good life. Not just religious. More of a sense of connectedness to one another.
The stronger perception a person has, of community, the better they are at not acting in an antisocial way. I like your point about connectedness. This also brings up the topic of "division" and recognizing that certain aspects of the system are designed to isolate us from community. The less connected we are, the easier it is to control us.
I wonder if Bitcoin could help fix part of this? 🤔
Yes. But personal responsibility is also something that cannot be overlooked. I admit that I am late to the bitcoin game, because I was too involved in other things to see its importance.
You can try to on-board people, but they have to choose to be involved... and not be distracted by shiny objects, like I was.
Agree! It takes time. Watering seeds indeed.