Why did Maconochie have such trouble getting support for his mark system?

Maconochie faced significant opposition to his mark system primarily due to entrenched attitudes towards punishment and rehabilitation in the criminal justice system of his time. Many officials and the public were skeptical of the idea that prisoners could be rehabilitated through a system based on earned privileges. Additionally, Maconochie's progressive views challenged traditional penal practices, leading to resistance from those who favored harsher punitive measures. His innovative approach was seen as too radical, ultimately hindering its implementation and widespread acceptance.