I oppose the death penalty because it cannot be reversed, has a higher cost for society, it has not proven to be an effective deterrent, we have the capability to keep evil people locked away from society forever, and because it is inequitably leveled on the poor who cannot afford good defense.
Higher cost as in dollars? It seems to work as a deterrent in other countries, anecdotally, but crimes would still be committed. It doesn't mean in some cases it isn't just. I think the best argument against the death penalty is the imperfection of our system of justice. But I like Red's argument about being for the death penalty, but using stringent guidelines to best insure correctness. I don't think being a spiritual and sympathetic person necessarily means you should be against the death penalty.
Yes, the total dollar cost of executing a prisoner is significantly higher than life without parole. In which country is the death penalty an effective deterrent?
The death penalty is only just if two conditions are met. The first is the proof of guilt is as near absolute as possible. The second is there is no other way to protect society from the guilty party. In modern America we have jails that can adequately protect society and punish criminals.
That seems counter-intuitive. Middle eastern countries? Is protecting society the only reason for the death penalty? Do you believe in life imprisonment in hopes of rehabilitation, not necessarily for the benefit of society but for the benefit of the criminal?
Yeah - that's true. Just look at Andy Dufresne! Is there anything more terrifying than going to prison for murders you DIDN"T commit? ldskule:
Hell, look at the Duke "rapists". Prosecutors get it wrong all of the time. Just ask poor OJ. (kidding, kidding)
