How did the treadmill contribute to the economy of the prison system?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Prison Treadmill Operator
The treadmill, introduced in the 19th century, served as a form of labor for prisoners, converting their physical exertion into productive output. This system reduced prison costs by minimizing the need for paid labor, while also generating goods or services for the institution. It exemplified a punitive approach to rehabilitation, intertwining punishment with economic efficiency in the prison system.