[kridsdale2]

The social contract in America is different. Many/Most people do not regard other citizens as their brethren who deserve better lives. They are adversaries and competitors. Everyone starts (ideally) with a blank slate and makes their lives what they will with minimal guidance or force by the state. If someone makes bad decisions that lead to criminality, they need to be eliminated from the public.

So the thinking goes.

Reforming the justice process depends on the will of the electorate. Since the above sentiment is so core to the American culture and values, it's not likely to change much.