transcendental meditation for prisoners

My opponent argues that common sense states: A prisoner does X X isn't helpful Therefore X aggravates the prisoner The problem with this is that there is no solid argument for why X could be Transcendental Meditation. What evidence shows TM would not be helpful? Therefore why would TM aggravate prisoners? Be tough on crime Be tough on the causes of crime As I have stated: criminality lies in the way people think and make decisions. TM benefits the prisoner in ways they help them make better choices. Rebuttals Con argues that TM should not be mandatory in prisons because there are other ways that also work as promising solutions towards their rehabilitation. Just because there are other approaches to rehab does not give enough reason as to why TM should not be mandatory in prisons. In fact, TM is a perfect complementary practice to other methods, as I have stated in my opening argument. I never said TM must be the ONLY practice, but that it be mandatory. Con stating that TM only has effects on relaxation is a fallacious understatement. For example recently the American College of Cardiology Symposium Highlights  Research on TM and Cardiovascular Disease Q: Is there evidence that the Transcendental Meditation program alone can lower high blood pressure? Dr. Kaplan: Several studies on both teenagers (American Journal of Hypertension, 2004) and elderly adults (Hypertension, 1999) have demonstrated that high blood pressure is reduced even after a few months of twice-daily practice of the Transcendental Meditation technique. The need for medication is reduced and sometimes eliminated. Anyone on medication who starts practicing the TM technique should follow up regularly with their physician to monitor this positive effect on blood pressure and the need for continued medication. [1] Effects on Society Extensive research published in leading scientific journals demonstrates that the powerful, stress-reducing effect of the TM technique has a calming effect in the surrounding population. When individuals practice TM in groups, the research has shown a dramatic and immediate reduction in societal stress, crime, violence, and conflict—and an increase in coherence, positivity, and peace in society. [1] It should be noted that although exercise and job skills are important for a person's well being does not provide the long term benefits of the TM practice for self-actualization and self-development. This is a key component that is missing in the rehab process. Many prisons have tried TM and had incredible progress, so I believe that all prisons should be given the opportunity to use this technique as well. http://youtu.be... Unconstitutional Millions of people have learned the Transcendental Meditation program from all religious faiths, including priests, rabbis, and ministers, and they find no conflict between the practice and their religions. [2] The Federal Government never declared the TM program is a religion. Numerous government programs involving the TM program have been approved by the government for implementing or researching the TM program in health facilities, schools, universities, research facilities, prisons and probation programs.[2] TM program is not Hinduism, therefore, any more than Einstein's theory of relativity is Jewish, or Genetic theory, conceived of by Monk Gregor Mendel is considered to be Christian. No religious beliefs are involved. Conclusion To hold the opinion that the TM program is a religion is to ignore an enormous body of scientific research which demonstrates clearly that it is not a religion. Sources http://www.tm.org... [1] http://www.truthabouttm.org...[2]