Ep 18. Prison Experiment

In this episode of Mysteries at the Museum, viewers are taken on a journey through a strange and unsettling prison experiment that took place in the early 20th century. The episode begins with an introduction to the host and narrator, who sets the stage for the experiment and provides some background information on the history of prisons in the United States.

The main focus of the episode is on a series of experiments that were conducted at Philadelphia's Eastern State Penitentiary between 1911 and 1915. The experiment was designed to test the theory that absolute solitary confinement could be used to effectively reform inmates and prevent them from committing further crimes. Inmates were placed in tiny, windowless cells and left in complete isolation for months or even years at a time.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to several artifacts and documents related to the experiment. These include diary entries written by the prison's warden, photos of the experimental cells, and even a preserved cat that was kept by one of the inmates during his confinement.

Along the way, the host speaks with experts on the history of prisons and the psychology of solitary confinement. They provide insight into the ethical implications of the experiment and discuss some of the long-term effects that it may have had on the inmates involved.

The episode also delves into the aftermath of the experiment and its impact on the American prison system as a whole. Viewers learn about the eventual abandonment of extreme solitary confinement in favor of more humane methods of incarceration, as well as ongoing debates over the use of solitary confinement in the modern era.

Overall, this episode of Mysteries at the Museum provides a fascinating and thought-provoking look at one of the most infamous prison experiments in American history. With its blend of historical documentation and expert analysis, it offers a compelling exploration of the limits of human endurance and the ethical questions that arise when attempting to reform those who have committed crimes.